The exclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal from India’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has sparked debate among cricket experts. Former India opener Aakash Chopra, a close associate of head coach Gautam Gambhir, has openly expressed his disappointment over the young batter being overlooked.
❌ Jaiswal Misses Out, Kishan Gets the Nod
Despite establishing himself across formats, Jaiswal was not named in the final T20 World Cup squad. He had served as a backup opener in the 2024 T20 World Cup and was once again in contention this time. However, Ishan Kishan was preferred as the backup opener and wicketkeeper, which effectively ruled out both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill.
🗣️ Aakash Chopra: “Yashasvi Should Have Been in the Team”
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra firmly backed Jaiswal, stating that the left-hander deserved a place in the squad based on his performances over the last few years.
“The way Yashasvi is playing, logically he should have been in the team. He was part of the T20 World Cup 2024 squad and had also scored a century before that tournament,” Chopra said.
He further highlighted that Jaiswal is among a rare group of six Indian players to have scored centuries in all three formats, underlining his versatility and consistency since 2023.
📊 Proven Performer Across Formats
Jaiswal has already made a strong impact in Test cricket, impressed in T20Is, and showcased his explosive batting in the IPL. Chopra pointed out that players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have earned trust across formats, and Jaiswal belongs in that elite category.
🔄 Team Combination Changed the Equation
Chopra also explained how team dynamics worked against Jaiswal. After scoring a T20I century, the focus shifted to the Test season, and Jaiswal was rested from T20Is. During that phase, Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson were given opportunities.
Samson, in particular, made the most of his chances and delivered consistent performances, eventually cementing his place in the squad.
“It was believed Yashasvi had sealed his spot in the top order. But suddenly Abhishek and Sanju played so well that there was no space left,” Chopra added.
🔍 Tough Call for Team Management
With limited slots and multiple in-form players, the selectors faced a difficult decision. However, Jaiswal’s omission has left many questioning whether current form and past achievements were given due weight.
