‘Very unfair’: R Ashwin vents frustration after India drop Yashasvi Jaiswal from ODIs in New Zealand

R Ashwin and Yashasvi Jaiswal Ravichandran Ashwin has slammed the BCCI selection committee for dropping Yashasvi Jaiswal from the Indian ODI squad for the New Zealand series. The former India spinner believes Jaiswal deserved a chance in the last two matches, especially with Shubman Gill rested.Ashwin warned that repeatedly missing out on international cricket could affect a young batsman’s confidence and development.Ashwin called the decision “unfair and unfortunate” on his YouTube channel. He argued that while Jaiswal may need time to prepare for the upcoming Test series, the selectors could still include him in the final two ODIs to give him valuable match practice.“If Shubman Gill doesn’t play the last two ODIs, then Yashasvi Jaiswal should definitely get the slot. It’s very unfortunate because all this can destroy his confidence. Now that he has scored runs…”Ashwin also pointed out that Jaiswal has not played international cricket for around four months despite previously scoring consistently across formats. He said team management should try to keep a talented player involved rather than leaving him without opportunities.“He was a running machine. If his confidence is destroyed, it’s the job of the team management and the selectors to give him opportunities wherever possible. But he didn’t get those opportunities at all. He didn’t get it. And it’s very unfair.”

Ashwin calls Jaiswal a valuable talent

Ashwin suggested that the selectors could have spoken directly to Jaiswal about playing the last two ODIs, allowing him to decide if he was ready. He acknowledged the importance of preparing for Test cricket but questioned why it should come at the cost of ODI opportunities.“I agree that he needs to prepare for Test cricket. But tell me when was the last time Yashasvi Jaiswal played an ODI? When was the last time he played a T20? When was the last time he played a Test match?”Jaiswal’s limited ODI experience has also raised questions about India’s preparations for next year’s ODI World Cup in South Africa, particularly in terms of developing back-up players. Ashwin stressed that the selectors and the team management must take responsibility to support the young batsman and help him regain his rhythm.“It is very unfortunate. It is definitely the responsibility of the selectors and the team management to look after Yashasvi Jaiswal. He is a rare talent,” concluded Ashwin.