India’s ODI squad for next month’s tour of England has sparked fresh debate, with former batter Sanjay Manjrekar expressing surprise over the omission of Yashasvi Jaiswal. The young opener, who impressed whenever he got an opportunity in the format, failed to find a place in the squad despite a strong start to his ODI career.
Yashasvi Jaiswal was not initially part of India’s plans for the recently concluded ODI series against Afghanistan. However, he received an opportunity after Virat Kohli was ruled out with a hamstring injury. The left-handed batter made the most of his chance and ended the series on a high by scoring a century in Chennai.
That knock was Yashasvi Jaiswal’s second ODI hundred in just six matches. Earlier, he had announced himself in the format with an unbeaten 116 against South Africa in Visakhapatnam in December last year. His performances strengthened his case for a regular place in the ODI side but Virat Kohli’s return for the England series resulted in Yashasvi Jaiswal missing out on selection.
Sanjay Manjrekar felt the decision was unfortunate given the youngster’s recent record. He pointed out that Yashasvi Jaiswal had scored two centuries in his last three ODI innings and had made full use of the opportunities that came his way while opening in a strong Indian batting lineup. According to him, leaving out a player who has consistently delivered in limited chances appears to be a harsh call.
The former India batter also shifted focus to Rohit Sharma and questioned how the selectors view the veteran opener’s future. With the 2027 ODI World Cup still some distance away, Manjrekar suggested that the selectors should have clarity regarding Rohit’s role in the team’s long-term plans.
He said that if Rohit has been selected because he is genuinely considered part of India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup, then the decision is understandable. However, if that is not the case, he believes the spot could have been used to invest in another player for the future.
Sanjay Manjrekar further argued that team selection should always be based on what benefits Indian cricket in the long run rather than on the reputation of individual stars. He noted that decisions involving big-name players are often complicated but stressed that clarity from selectors is important. In his view, Indian cricket should prioritise future planning and team development above everything else.
India’s three-match ODI series against England is scheduled to begin on July 14.
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