“I Would Like to Lead India”: Yashasvi Jaiswal Sends Strong Message to Selectors Ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup
Jaiswal made his ODI debut in February this year and has scored 171 runs in four matches, including an unbeaten century. He made his T20I debut in 2023 and has since scored 723 runs.
He is one of the brightest batting talents to emerge from India in recent years. Although he has proved his ability across formats, Yashasvi Jaiswal has received consistent opportunities mainly in Test cricket. In the limited chances he has had in white-ball cricket, however, he has still managed to make a strong impact.
Jaiswal made his ODI debut in February this year and has scored 171 runs in four matches, including an unbeaten century. He made his T20I debut in 2023 and has since scored 723 runs from 22 innings at a strike rate of 164.31, with one century and five half-centuries.
With India having many talented options, Jaiswal has often needed to wait for his opportunities. Yet the 23-year-old, who dreams of playing in the T20 World Cup, remains patient and ready for his chance.
Also Read -IND vs SA Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win the 2nd T20I?
Jaiswal’s Dream and the Competition for Opening Spots
“My dream is to play the T20 World Cup, but I try to focus on my game and will wait for my time," Jaiswal said at the Agenda Aaj Tak Summit.
Jaiswal is an opener, but India already has strong players at the top. Abhishek Sharma is now settled, and Shubman Gill and Sanju Samson have also opened the innings. The competition is so tough that Samson, who was India’s highest T20I run-scorer in 2024, had to step aside when Gill returned.
Captaincy Hopes for India and Rajasthan Royals
Jaiswal is not only aiming to play for India in all formats; he is also open to leading the national team in the future.
“Yes, if I get a chance, I would like to lead India," he said.
His IPL team, the Rajasthan Royals, will need a new captain next season after Sanju Samson was traded to the Chennai Super Kings. Jaiswal is one of the possible options, although he does not have captaincy experience. Teammates like Ravindra Jadeja, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel are currently ahead in the race.
The next T20 World Cup will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
Tags:
