Rajasthan Royals Yashavi Jaiswal (ANI Image)
Yashasvi Jaiswal is one of the more established names in the Rajasthan Royals squad, even if his journey of late has taken an unexpected turn in terms of exposure and influence.Jaiswal was seen as the next big batting star in Indian cricket, and has already made a strong mark across formats, particularly in Tests, where he has cemented his place as a long-standing opener for India.
Despite this, his white-ball opportunities have been inconsistent. He scored a century in his last ODI appearance against South Africa last year, but was not included in the latest ODI squad for the series against Afghanistan.
Jaiswal was also part of India’s 2024 World Cup-winning squad, although he did not feature in T20Is around that time. With Test cricket being given priority at the time, he was given a break from the shorter format. In his absence, players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson stepped up strongly and continued to establish themselves as regular T20 openers for India, pushing Jaiswal down the pecking order.At the franchise level, his role has also come under the spotlight. Now in his seventh season in the IPL with Rajasthan Royals, he has often been expected to lead the batting duty. However, much of the attention this season has shifted towards his opening partner, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a young sensation who is fast becoming one of the most talked about names in the league.While Jaiswal has scored 426 runs from 15 matches, Suryavanshi has gone further with 680 runs and counting, coupled with a surge in popularity that has led to comparisons with superstars of the game.
The inconsistency has intensified the narrative around Jaiswal’s standing within the team.Former Indian cricketer
Ambati Rayudu
He believes Jaiswal may benefit from changing the environment. According to him, the young opener has found himself in the shadows and may need a fresh start to fully express his potential.“He needs to change his team. Because he can’t fight with the guy and he gets overshadowed every time. He’s a star in his own right. He’s a star in his own right.”
If he goes to another team, he will win games on his own. He needs that space and that platform. Since this man will still overwhelm people, he should have a great partner by his side who can deal with him and be happy for him. Be happy with what is happening and do not compete with the non-striker.”
Which team would be the best fit for Yashavi Jaiswal if he leaves Rajasthan Royals?
Naturally, the discussion led to speculation about where Jaiswal could go next if he leaves Rajasthan Royals. Rayudu believes that would be the most logical destination
Mumbai Indians
. with
Rohit Sharma
As he approaches the final stretch of his IPL career, MI may soon be plotting a long-term Indian first-class option.“Mumbai Indians are a good team for Jaiswal,” he said.Rayudu also pointed out that Mumbai is not unfamiliar territory for Jaiswal, as he has come through the domestic circuit across formats, including the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. The fit seems natural from a cricketing and developmental perspective.