The India squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series Afghanistan received a significant update after the lineup changes. The decision has sparked debate among fans and pundits, particularly with players battling to earn a call-up.
It was among the names that caused considerable debate Ruturaj GaikwadA, who recently impressed with a century while representing India.However, despite his strong performances and growing reputation in domestic and international cricket, the selectors took a different route in finalizing the squad.
Aakash Chopra breaks down the selection decision
Speaking on the YouTube channel, Akash Chopra He explained why he believed the selection committee made the right decision by not naming Gaikwad Virat Kohli Replacement for Afghanistan ODI series. Kohli was ruled out for three matches due to injury and the selectors forced him to bring him on. Yashasvi Jaiswal into the staff. Chopra noted that the decision was largely influenced by team balance and the roles envisaged for both players.
According to Chopra, Gaikwad is currently viewed as a middle-order option rather than a top-order batsman in India’s ODI plans. He pointed out that the right-hander recently scored a century while batting at No.4 for India A, suggesting that the management values him for that particular position.
“Why wasn’t Ruturaj Gaikwad chosen to replace Virat Kohli? As we speak, there is a tri-nation series in which Ruturaj Gaikwad was chosen as the vice-captain and he scored a hundred in the first match while batting at number 4.” Chopra said.
The former player further pointed out that neither Gaikwad nor Jaiswal were guaranteed a place in India’s playing XI for the Afghanistan series under normal circumstances. He added that opportunities in the middle order are currently limited, making regular playing time elsewhere a more practical option for Gaikwad.
Also READ: Virat Kohli fan Harry Kane jokingly suggests playing for ECB and RCB ahead of FIFA World Cup.
Why the inclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal made more sense
Chopra also explained that Jaiswal’s selection made sense as he was already part of India’s preparations for the one-off Test against Afghanistan. With the ODI series scheduled right after the Test, keeping him in the national squad made the transition simple.
“Since Yashasvi Jaiswal is an integral part of India’s Test team and has played this Test as well, it made a lot of sense to keep him alone.” Chopra said.
The 48-year-old added that spending time with India A could ultimately benefit Gaikwa more than sitting on the bench with the big side. With Gaikwad currently serving as vice-captain and getting consistent opportunities in the middle order, Chopra believes the batsman is in a better position to strengthen his case for a future recall.
Also READ: Ruturaj Gaikwad’s heroic century leads India-A past Sri Lanka-A in nail-biting ODI Tri-Series clash
