Former IND cricketer explains why Ruturaj Gaikwad may not play South Africa ODIs despite call-up

Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to open with Ruturaj Gaikwad, believes ex-IND cricketer. (Photo: X)

Former India opener Aakash Chopra predicted Yashasvi Jaiswal to open with Rohit Sharma in the ODI series against South Africa, believing that Ruturaj Gaikwad might not be given a chance. A 15-man team has been announced by the Indian selectors for the forthcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, which is set to begin on November 30.

In addition to Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has only played one ODI thus far, Ruturaj has been called up to the team due to his steady domestic cricket performances. Prior to the home series, the selection choices have garnered notice because to the unavailability of important batters Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill. Although Chopra agreed with Gaikwad's choice, he believes Jaiswal should have an opportunity to play.

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"Ruturaj Gaikwad has scored so many runs that his selection was almost confirmed. There was a thought that could Abhishek Sharma come in. But you cannot do that. It is imperative for Yashasvi Jaiswal to get his chance first. Even though Ruturaj has been picked in the squad, I don't think he will part of the XI. I see Jaiswal opening the innings with Rohit Sharma," said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been included in the squad with Hardik Pandya still sidelined by injury. Chopra weighed in on Reddy’s selection, raising questions about his role and how he has been used in recent games.

"Till now, I am not able to understand what the team wants Nitish Kumar Reddy to do. It's the same theme in Test cricket as well. They get him to bat sometimes and bowl sometimes. On the day, he gets a chance to bat, they forget to bowl him. And when he bowls, he doesn't bat. When he bats, he can't make runs and he is not given enough overs to try and take wickets."

Reddy's predicament was further explained by Chopra, who noted that he has had difficulty landing a steady role.

"He has played 10 matches, but one is still not able to understand his role. He bowled six out of 150 overs [in the ongoing Test]. In Delhi [against West Indies], he did no bowl a single over. It's a very strange one. Anyways, Hardik Pandya is not there, so this will be his opportunity," Chopra added.

KL Rahul will lead India in the ODI series, which will take place from November 30 to December 6 in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam. With a number of regulars out, this series gives India a chance to test the bench strength, particularly among the batters and all-rounders.