Published By: Sayan Guha

THIS Indian Star Could Be the Ultimate Cheat Code for ODIs – Find Out!

From smashing sixes to setting records, is the next big thing in Indian cricket ready for 50-over stardom?

As the cricketing world prepares for the Champions Trophy, this youngster’s name has become a beacon of optimism and enthusiasm. The teenage batting star, who has already shown himself in Tests and T20Is, is allegedly being considered as India’s backup opener for the ODI campaign. This probable selection indicates the selectors’ growing confidence in his talents and suggests a trend towards developing new talent while preserving a mix of experience and youth in the team. Could his call-up usher forth a new era of Indian ODI cricket?

The rise of YJ

Not long ago, a young Yashasvi Jaiswal made a name for himself by scoring a List A double century at the age of 17. That achievement caught people’s attention, but it was no surprise to those who knew. Jaiswal had already established himself as an imposing opener, routinely delivering in Mumbai’s home circuit.


By 2025, Jaiswal had established himself as a Test superstar and T20I powerhouse. However, there is one fascinating gap in his resume: he has yet to wear the blue jersey in one-day internationals. Given his superb List A statistics and ever-evolving talents, why hasn’t Jaiswal been named in the 50-over format?

The numbers don’t lie

Jaiswal’s List A numbers are striking: 1,511 runs in 32 innings, an average of 53.96, including five centuries. His double ton against Jharkhand in 2019 remains a monument to his talent. Since his explosive IPL seasons and spectacular T20I performances, Jaiswal has proven that he is more than just a one-dimensional batter. He can alter gears smoothly, which is a vital skill in current ODIs.

So, what’s the delay?

For a good reason, India’s ODI opening is now dominated by Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. They are a reliable combo with the second-best opening average in ODI history. Rohit’s solidity and Gill’s flare have held contenders like Jaiswal at bay.

Adding to the mix, India’s concentration on Tests and T20Is in 2024 left little opportunity to try fresh players in ODIs. The team only played three ODIs last year, and the established order remained unchanged despite a disappointing series in Sri Lanka.

Why Jaiswal could be the game-changer

Jaiswal’s game has improved dramatically from his List A days. His T20I strike rate of 164.31 demonstrates his increased power-hitting, and his ability to adapt to different forms separates him. Whether he’s smashed a hat-trick of sixes in Tests or scored quickfire IPL hundreds, Jaiswal has proven his ability to perform under pressure.

He also adds a left-right combination to the top, a tactical edge India has lacked in recent years. While his List A strike rate of 86.19 is small, it represents a previous version of Jaiswal, one that no longer exists.

A tough call ahead

As India prepares for the Champions Trophy, worries over the batting order arise. Rohit Sharma, 38, might be playing his final 50-over event. Will India take a chance on Jaiswal to shake things up? Or will they stay with the tried-and-true Gill-Rohit combination?

The decision isn’t simple. Gill had a fantastic season in 2023, and despite a recent slight downturn in play, his position is secure. Meanwhile, Jaiswal’s red-hot form across formats makes him a formidable opponent. But is it too risky to change the lineup right before a major event?

So, is Jaiswal ready for the ODIs? The stats say yes, and the performances scream yes. The only issue now is when the selections will take the plunge.