‘Change team’: Former India cricketer asks Yashasvi Jaiswal to quit Rajasthan Royals

Yashasvi Jaiswal of Rajasthan Royals (ANI photo) Yashasvi Jaiswal is one of the most recognized names in the Rajasthan Royals lineup, though his journey has taken an unexpected turn in terms of visibility and impact of late.Once regarded as the next big batting superstar of Indian cricket, Jaiswal has already made a significant impact across formats, especially in Tests where he has cemented his place as India’s long-term opener. Despite this, his opportunities in the white-ball formats have been inconsistent. He scored a century in his last ODI appearance against South Africa last year but was not included in the latest ODI squad for the series against Afghanistan.Jaiswal was also part of India’s 2024 World Cup-winning squad, although he did not feature in the T20Is during that period. As Test cricket took precedence at the time, it was rested from the shortest format. In his absence, the likes of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson have stepped up strongly and established themselves as regular T20 openers for India, pushing Jaiswal down the pecking order.At the franchise level, his role has also taken center stage. Now in his seventh IPL season with Rajasthan Royals, he has often been expected to lead the batting attack. However, much of the focus this season has shifted to his opening partner Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a young sensation who has quickly become one of the most talked about names in the league.While Jaiswal scored 426 runs from 15 matches, Suryavanshi went even further with 680 runs and counting, along with a surge in popularity that drew comparisons with the game’s established superstars. The contrast only heightened the narrative of Jaiswal’s standing in the team.Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu believes Jaiswal can benefit from a change of scenery. According to him, the young opener has found himself in the shadows and may need a fresh start to reach his full potential.“He needs to change his team. Because he can’t just blow with that guy and be overshadowed every time. He’s a star in his own right. If he goes to another team, he’s going to win games on his own. He needs that space and that platform. Because this guy is going to keep overshadowing people, it’s got to be an older partner next to him that can deal with that and be happy for him.”

Which team would be the best fit for Yashasvi Jaiswal if he leaves Rajasthan Royals?

Naturally, the discussion led to speculations about where Jaiswal might go next if he leaves Rajasthan Royals. Rayudu believes the most logical target would be Mumbai Indians. With Rohit Sharma approaching the final phase of his IPL career, MI may soon be planning for a long-term Indian top-order option.“Mumbai Indians is a good team for Jaiswal,” he said.Rayudu also pointed out that Mumbai is not unfamiliar territory for Jaiswal as he has toured the domestic circuit across formats including Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The cut looks natural from both a cricketing and development point of view.