Yashasvi Jaiswal, the dynamic left-handed opener with a stellar T20I record of 723 runs in 23 matches at an average of 36.15 and strike rate of 164.31, has not played for India in the shortest format since July 30, 2024, against Sri Lanka. Despite being part of the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning squad (though not part of XI) and delivering consistent performances whenever selected, Jaiswal’s exclusion has persisted through multiple bilateral series and culminated in his omission from the 2026 T20 World Cup squad announced in December 2025.
Jaiswal’s last T20I appearance came in a three-match series in Sri Lanka, where he scored 80 runs across innings. Post that, India’s focus shifted to a packed Test schedule, with the 23-year-old prioritised for red-ball cricket. He excelled in Tests but found no opportunities in T20Is during home series against Bangladesh, tours to South Africa, or the high-profile five-match T20I series against England in January 2025.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar and experts have repeatedly cited team balance and versatility as key factors. Initially, Shubman Gill blocked Jaiswal’s path. Appointed vice-captain after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s retirements, Gill opened in several series, including the Asia Cup 2025, despite a modest T20I strike rate around 137. Gill’s leadership role and all-format status kept Jaiswal on the bench or out of squads altogether.
Even after Gill’s form dip led to his eventual drop ahead of the 2026 World Cup, Jaiswal did not benefit. Selectors pivoted to a wicketkeeper-opener strategy. Sanju Samson established himself as the primary choice, combining explosive batting with reliable keeping for added flexibility.
Ishan Kishan forced a recall with a blistering Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (over 500 runs at strike rate near 200), providing backup keeping and aggressive opening – directly filling the need for dual-utility players.
Abhishek Sharma’s emergence as the left-handed aggressor further crowded the top order. With a T20I strike rate exceeding 188 and handy left-arm spin, Abhishek offered all-round value that a pure specialist like Jaiswal lacked.
Former players have voiced strong criticism. Aakash Chopra called the repeated snubs “unfortunate,” noting Jaiswal’s consistency since 2023. Dilip Vengsarkar questioned what more he needed to do.
Agarkar emphasised “combinations over individuals,” favouring multi-skilled options in modern T20 cricket.
