Ex-India Cricketer Predicts Jaiswal, Not Ruturaj, to Open with Rohit in SA ODIs

Former India opener Aakash Chopra has suggested that Ruturaj Gaikwad may not make the playing XI in the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, tipping Yashasvi Jaiswal to open alongside Rohit Sharma.

The BCCI announced a 15-member squad for the three-match series starting November 30. Ruturaj earned a recall following strong domestic performances, while Jaiswal, who has played just one ODI, is also included. With key batters Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer unavailable, the selection decisions have drawn attention.

“Ruturaj Gaikwad has scored so many runs that his selection was almost certain. There was a thought about Abhishek Sharma, but you cannot do that. It is imperative for Yashasvi Jaiswal to get his chance first. Even though Ruturaj is in the squad, I don’t think he will play. I see Jaiswal opening with Rohit Sharma,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s Role Questioned

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been included in the squad in place of the injured Hardik Pandya. Chopra questioned Reddy’s role, pointing out that he has struggled to find consistency in both batting and bowling.

“Till now, it’s unclear what the team wants Reddy to do. Sometimes he bats, sometimes he bowls. On days he bats, he doesn’t bowl; when he bowls, he rarely bats. He hasn’t made a significant impact,” Chopra said.

Chopra added, “He has played 10 matches, but his role remains uncertain. In the ongoing Test, he bowled only six overs out of 150. Against West Indies in Delhi, he didn’t bowl at all. With Hardik absent, this ODI series is his chance to prove himself.”

The series, led by KL Rahul, will be played in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam from November 30 to December 6. With several regulars missing, it offers India an opportunity to test its bench strength, especially among batters and all-rounders.