New Delhi: Indian cricket is abuzz this week — not for a scintillating last-over win or a record-breaking knock, but for the surprising omission of Yashasvi Jaiswal from India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad, despite his proven talent and recent form.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squad for next year’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and once again Jaiswal did not find a place, leaving fans and experts puzzled. What makes it more controversial is that this snub comes after a string of solid performances across formats and despite his reputation as one of India’s most destructive young batters.
Veteran Voice Speaks Out
“It’s unfortunate…” Cricketing great Dilip Vengsarkar, former India captain and selector, did not hold back in his criticism. “It is unfortunate that Yashasvi is being left out time and again for no fault of his. He has been in tremendous form across all formats of the game and I don’t know what else he has to do to get into the team,” Vengsarkar told PTI.
He added a blunt verdict: “Nobody should leave a match winner out of the team.”
This comment highlights the growing frustration among former players and fans alike, who expected Jaiswal’s explosive batting to secure him a spot. (Source – NDTV Sports)
According to reports, Jaiswal’s last T20 International appearance came way back in July 2024 during a series in Sri Lanka. After that, he was directed to focus on Test cricket while India prioritized red-ball commitments, meaning he missed out on subsequent white-ball opportunities to stay in selectors’ sight.
Ironically, in recent domestic play, other players — such as Ishan Kishan — have grabbed headlines with big scores, including a 49-ball century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final, which seemingly boosted their selection case. Jaiswal, too, scored a 50-ball ton in a similar chase just days earlier, but that was not enough to sway the decision.
What the Critics Are Saying
Responding to the selection, Vengsarkar warned that such decisions could impact a player’s confidence. “You are bound to lose confidence if you are made to feel that you are not required in one format,” he said, pointing out that regular playing rhythm and visibility matter in modern cricket.
Another respected cricket voice, WV Raman, believes the selection committee must have communicated its thinking directly to Jaiswal, though those discussions remain private. “Jaiswal will have to bide his time but…he will play many more World Cups,” said Raman.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t the first time Jaiswal’s white-ball credentials have been questioned — he was also omitted from India squads in recent limited-overs series, despite boasting impressive strike rates and match-winning potential.
For now, Yashasvi Jaiswal remains on the outside looking in — but with enough talent and time on his side, his fans are confident this won’t be the last word.
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