Ashwin Slams Jaiswal’s ODI Snub, Says India Must Protect Young Batter’s Confidence

Former India off-spinner R Ashwin has questioned the decision to leave Yashasvi Jaiswal out of India’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, warning that the lack of international cricket could damage the young opener’s confidence at a crucial stage of his career.

Reacting to the squads announced by the BCCI on Friday, Ashwin argued that Jaiswal deserved an opportunity in the final two ODIs, particularly if captain Shubman Gill was unavailable. He said the team management and selectors must ensure that a player of Jaiswal’s ability does not remain on the sidelines despite being in good form.

“If Shubman Gill is not playing the last two ODIs, then Yashasvi Jaiswal should definitely get that spot. It is very unfortunate because all of this can ruin his confidence,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Describing the left-handed batter as a “run-machine”, Ashwin stressed that his argument was not simply about giving a young player more opportunities, but about providing meaningful match time to a talented cricketer who has been scoring consistently.

Jaiswal’s last ODI appearance came in June, when he smashed an unbeaten 110 off 86 balls against Afghanistan, helping India complete a 3-0 series sweep. He had entered the playing XI as a replacement for an injured Virat Kohli and made the opportunity count with a commanding performance.

Ashwin expressed concern that Jaiswal had not been able to build on that success at the international level. He also suggested that the youngster’s batting had changed compared with two or three years ago, making regular opportunities even more important.

“He is a precious talent,” Ashwin said, adding that it was the responsibility of the selectors and team management to look after him and provide opportunities whenever possible.

Jaiswal has instead been named in India A’s squad for a three-match red-ball series against New Zealand, beginning October 26 in Lincoln. He will join KL Rahul as the two prepare for the upcoming Test series.

While acknowledging the importance of preparing for Test cricket, Ashwin questioned why Jaiswal could not also have been considered for the two ODIs, arguing that international match experience was invaluable.

The debate over Jaiswal’s omission raises questions about how India manage a young batter who has demonstrated his ability but has had limited opportunities to establish himself across international formats.