In a surprising turn of events, talented young batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal has been included as a stand-by player in the India squad for the highly anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) final. The decision comes as a replacement for Ruturaj Gaikwad, who will be unable to join the team due to his upcoming wedding on June 3. With Jaiswal already possessing a valid UK visa, he is set to join the squad in London in the coming days.
Gaikwal rewarded for his form
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) initially added Gaikwad as a stand-by opener for the WTC final against Australia. However, it was reported that Gaikwad informed the board about his availability only after June 5, prompting the selection committee to opt for Jaiswal as the replacement instead.
Jaiswal’s inclusion in the squad comes on the back of his exceptional form in recent times, particularly in the IPL 2023 season. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, the young batting sensation amassed an impressive total of 625 runs in just 14 innings, featuring five half-centuries and a scintillating century. Despite not having made his debut for the Indian team in any format, Jaiswal boasts a remarkable first-class record, amassing 1845 runs in 15 matches at an astounding average of 80.21. This includes nine centuries and two fifties, highlighting his immense potential as a top-order batsman.
An exceptional first-class career
The 2022-23 Ranji Trophy saw Jaiswal further prove his mettle, as he scored 315 runs in five matches at an average of 45.00, including one fifty and a century. Following his successful domestic season, the left-hander continued to impress during the Irani Trophy, where he recorded outstanding innings of 213 and 144 for Rest of India against Madhya Pradesh. His remarkable tally of 357 runs in the match stands as the highest individual score ever achieved in an Irani Trophy game, firmly establishing Jaiswal as one of the most promising young talents in Indian cricket.
As the Indian team embarks on their journey to the WTC final, led by skipper Rohit Sharma, Jaiswal’s inclusion injects an element of excitement and anticipation. While India faced defeat in the previous WTC final against New Zealand in 2021, this time around, Jaiswal’s selection provides an additional boost to the team’s already formidable batting lineup.
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