Indian captain Rohit Sharma provided insights into the selection of Yashasvi Jaiswal for the IND vs WI Test series, highlighting the need for a left-hander in the Indian cricket lineup. The first Test is set to take place in Dominica from July 12 to 16, marking the beginning of the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle for both teams.
India announced a 16-member Test squad for the two-match series, including new faces such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Both players have showcased their batting prowess in the IPL 2023, accumulating significant runs for their respective teams.
Rohit Sharma addressed the selection process for the Test series and emphasized Yashasvi Jaiswal’s importance in the Indian batting lineup. “There are a couple of guys who have missed out. Unfortunately, you can pick only 15-16 players in the squad. But everyone’s time will come. That is what I want to say,” Rohit Sharma expressed during a press interaction.
“Indian cricket desperately needed a left-hander, and we have found a very promising player in Jaiswal. He looks very promising. The same goes for Ruturaj and Gill. Gill has been consistently playing good cricket for a year now, and we hope he continues his good form,” Rohit Sharma added.
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The Indian Test squad now boasts three young players who can open the innings: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Shubman Gill. Rohit Sharma spoke highly of Ruturaj’s talent, expressing confidence that his time will come.
“Ruturaj has the potential to be successful in red-ball cricket. He has already shown us his capabilities in T20 cricket. It’s his time, and I’m sure he’s also looking forward to scoring runs for the Indian team. It’s quite exciting to have players like them joining the squad. It’s beneficial for the Indian team,” Rohit Sharma remarked.
Rohit Sharma confirmed the opening combination for the first Test match in Dominica, announcing that Yashasvi Jaiswal will make his Test debut and open the innings alongside him, while Gill will bat at number three.
“In terms of batting positions, Gill will bat at No. 3, as he expressed his preference for that spot. He had a discussion with Rahul bhai (Rahul Dravid) and conveyed that he has played most of his cricket at No. 3 and No. 4, where he can contribute better for the team. It also benefits us to have a left-right batting combination. This is what we are trying, and hopefully, it becomes a long-term strategy as we have been in need of a left-hander. Let’s hope he performs exceptionally well and solidifies that position,” concluded Rohit Sharma.