One of the most recent headache for the selectors and the Indian team management pertains to the opening combination. While most felt that that the pair of Rohit and Gill are perfect for the World Cup after the latter sealed his spot at the start of this year with an array of centuries, but amid the emergence of young Yashasvi Jaiswal, veterans and analysts have been adamant on wanting him in the World Cup squad.
Jaiswal broke into the scene after a memorable IPL 2023 season which saw him earn a maiden call-up for the tour of West Indies. He was immediately handed the debut cap for the 1st Test where he scored a record 171 in India’s innings victory.
Ganguly, in conversation with Telegraph on the young player, who joined him in the list of centurions for India on Test debut and also broke his 27-year-old Asia record for most runs in first Test appearance away from home, was full of praise for the youngster and sent out a message to Rohit and head coach Rahul Dravid that Jaiswal is a “must” for the World Cup.
Ganguly’s reasoning wasn’t just based on Jaiswal’s record or his stupendous run, but also on his left-handed batting ability which will add variety to the India’s top-order line-up.
“Scoring a hundred on debut is always massive. I too have done it, so I know how special it is. Even technique-wise, he seems really good. A left-handed batsman’s presence in the team always helps. So, having him in the World Cup squad is a must,” Ganguly emphasised.
