Sunil Gavaskar recently acknowledged the challenging task for the Indian selectors in choosing Rohit Sharma‘s opening partner for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With the tournament scheduled to be held in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 to March 9, India are in Group A alongside Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh. All of India’s matches will take place in Dubai.
During a discussion on Star Sports’ ‘Game Plan,’ Gavaskar was asked to pick the second opener alongside Rohit, with potential candidates including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Ruturaj Gaikwad. The legendary former India captain made his choice clear, selecting the left-handed Jaiswal over Gill. Gavaskar explained the strategic advantage of having a left-right batting combination at the top of the order, especially when facing white-ball bowling.
“One of the key advantages or drawbacks, depending on your perspective, is the presence of white balls,” Gavaskar stated. “A delivery that is perfect for a right-handed batsman could become a wide on the leg side for a left-hander, resulting in an extra run and ball. The left-right combination can also complicate things for bowlers, especially in the middle overs.combination in the middle, especially with players like Rishabh Pant involved, can have a significant impact.”
Irfan Pathan echoed Gavaskar’s thoughts, praising Jaiswal’s recent form in both T20 and Test cricket. “Think about what would happen if both Rohit and Jaiswal start scoring freely from either end. It will be a nightmare for the bowlers,” Pathan noted, highlighting Jaiswal’s explosive strike rate in T20 cricket and impressive performances in Tests.
Jaiswal, who hasn’t yet played an ODI, has been in stunning form, with 1798 runs at an average of 52.88 in 19 Tests and 723 runs with a strike rate of 164.31 in 22 T20Is.
When asked about Shubman Gill’s spot in the lineup if Jaiswal is picked as the opener, Gavaskar replied, “Virat Kohli will take No. 3, and No. 4 might be Shreyas Iyer. No. 5 is Rishabh Pant. It will be difficult for Shubman.” Gavaskar also highlighted Gill’s recent dip in form, particularly his struggles in Australia, suggesting that the selectors will need to carefully assess his situation before making a final decision.