Ruturaj Out, Jaiswal Set to Open with Rohit in South Africa ODIs: Ex-India Cricketer

Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes Ruturaj Gaikwad may not feature in the playing XI during the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, tipping Yashasvi Jaiswal to open alongside Rohit Sharma.

The BCCI recently announced a 15-member squad for the three-match series starting November 30. Ruturaj has earned a recall to the squad following consistent domestic performances, while Jaiswal, who has played just one ODI so far, is also included. With regular batters Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer unavailable, the selection choices have sparked discussion ahead of the home series.

Chopra expressed support for Gaikwad’s inclusion but feels Jaiswal should get the opportunity to open.

“Ruturaj Gaikwad has scored so many runs that his selection was almost certain. There was a thought about Abhishek Sharma, but you cannot do that. It is imperative for Yashasvi Jaiswal to get his chance first. Even though Ruturaj is in the squad, I don’t think he will be part of the XI. I see Jaiswal opening with Rohit Sharma,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s Role

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been included in the squad in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who is still recovering from injury. Chopra questioned how Reddy has been utilised in recent matches and highlighted his struggle to find a consistent role.

“Till now, I am not able to understand what the team wants Nitish Kumar Reddy to do. In Tests, sometimes he bats and sometimes he bowls. On days he bats, he doesn’t bowl; when he bowls, he doesn’t get to bat. He has not been able to make an impact either way,” Chopra said.

Chopra further noted, “He has played 10 matches, but it’s still unclear what his role is. In the ongoing Test, he bowled six overs out of 150. In Delhi against West Indies, he didn’t bowl at all. With Hardik Pandya absent, this ODI series could be his opportunity to prove himself.”

The series, captained by KL Rahul, will take place in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam from November 30 to December 6. With several regulars unavailable, the series presents an opportunity for India to test its bench strength, particularly among batters and all-rounders.