Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin threw his weight behind Rajasthan Royals (RR) opener Yashasvi Jaiswal as a major contender for the Orange Cap. IPL 2026. The young left-hander has been in sensational form and his recent performances have strengthened his case as one of the best players this season.
“I will also put Shubman Gill in the same order” R Ashwin
Taking to his YouTube channel, Ashwin did not hesitate to praise Jaiswal’s consistency and aggressive approach. The opener has already scored 170 runs in just three innings, maintained a strike rate of over 163 and remained unbeaten on two occasions – numbers that highlight both his reliability and his attacking intent.
“Yashasvi Jaiswal is a strong contender to win the Orange Cap this time with a good strike rate” Ashwin said. “I’ll put Shubman Gill in the same line-up, but he’s obviously missed a game, so Yashasvi Jaiswal’s chances are a bit better.” He added that “Jaiswal has a better chance” Winning more Orange Cap than Gill.
Ashwin also pointed out that Jaiswal currently tops the run charts, giving him an early advantage in the race. In a tournament where momentum is often at a premium, such a strong start can make a big difference.
Jaiswal’s last performance against Mumbai Indians (MI) was a perfect example of his current form. In a rain-shortened match in Guwahati, he played a stunning unbeaten knock of 77 runs off just 32 balls. From the start, he was in complete control, attacking the bowlers and putting pressure on the opposition.
His innings included 10 fours and 4 sixes and he wasted no time in setting the tone. During the powerplay alone, he effectively took the game away from MI early on, scoring 58 runs in just over three overs. That aggressive start played a key role in RR’s comfortable 27-run win.
Ashwin’s prediction was no accident. Before the tournament started, he kept a close eye on the players who could dominate the season. Earlier, he picked Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill as one of his picks for the Orange cap, highlighting his hunger for runs.
“Knowing Shubman and seeing him closely, he loves batting. Running is also his hobby.” Ashwin had said. However, he warned Gill not to focus too much on his strike rate, suggesting it could affect his overall performance and the team’s balance.
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Ashwin’s selection before the start of IPL 2026
Interestingly, Ashwin had also backed Delhi Capitals (DC) prospect KL Rahul as another strong contender before the start of the season. He even suggested using Rahul as a key to maximize his impact.
“Make sure he opens this season. If he does, he will have the Orange Cap.” Ashwin recalled Rahul’s past performances and asked why he was not used consistently at the top of the order.
Despite these earlier predictions, it is Jaiswal who has progressed in the early stages of IPL 2026. With the Royals winning all three matches they have played so far, the team’s strong position in the points table has boosted its chances.
At this point in the tournament, Jaiswal looks beaten. His consistency, aggressive scoring and unbeaten streak set him apart. If this form continues, Ashwin’s prediction could very well become a reality as the season progresses.
