New Delhi,  Oct 17

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has questioned the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) selection decisions after young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was left out of the squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Jaiswal’s omission has raised questions among cricket followers, particularly with India beginning preparations for next year’s ODI World Cup. The five-match assignment against New Zealand is expected to provide the team management with an opportunity to assess players and establish combinations ahead of the major tournament.

However, Jaiswal has not been selected even for the final matches of the series, despite some key players being rested. The decision has surprised Ashwin, who believes the young batter deserves opportunities in India’s 50-over setup.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin expressed astonishment at Jaiswal’s continued absence from the ODI squad. He questioned the rationale behind leaving out the opener, especially as the player has not featured in limited-overs cricket for India for around four months.

Jaiswal has established himself as a prominent young batter through his performances in international cricket. His ability to score quickly and build substantial innings has strengthened his reputation, making his absence from the ODI plans a subject of discussion.

Ashwin’s comments have brought renewed attention to the selection strategy as India look to identify the players who could form part of the World Cup squad. Regular opportunities in the format are important for young players seeking to establish themselves and demonstrate consistency at the international level.

The selectors’ decision also raises questions about how India intend to balance the need to rest established players with the opportunity to assess emerging talent. With the World Cup approaching, every available ODI match could play a role in determining the team’s preferred combinations.

Although Jaiswal’s omission has prompted criticism, the selectors’ specific reasons for leaving him out have not been established in the information available. Ashwin’s remarks, however, have intensified the debate over whether the opener should be included in India’s ODI plans.