• Source:JND

Yashasvi Jaiswal made a strong statement with the bat in the recently concluded ODI series against Afghanistan, scoring a century in the third and final match. However, despite his impressive performance, the young opener has not been included in India’s ODI squad for the upcoming tour of England.

Jaiswal was brought into the team as a replacement for Virat Kohli, who missed the Afghanistan series after suffering an injury during the IPL 2026 final. While Jaiswal grabbed his opportunity with both hands, Kohli’s return meant there was no place for him in the squad.

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers admitted that it was tough on Jaiswal, especially after scoring a hundred. At the same time, he felt the selectors’ decision was understandable given Kohli’s stature and recent form.

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Speaking on his YouTube channel, De Villiers said that Jaiswal was unfortunate to miss out after performing well. He added that when a player of Kohli’s calibre returns, it becomes difficult for others to hold on to their spot. De Villiers also backed Kohli to continue the excellent form he showed during IPL 2026.

“Virat Kohli back. Little bit of a tough one on Jaiswal, who was back in Virat's place, scoring the hundred and now he's got to make way. No complaints there but it just a little bit harsh on players sometimes when your King comes back, when the main players come back, there is a process they are looking at. So truly makes sense for Virat to step in there and make sure he maintains the kind of form he showed in the IPL,” De Villiers said on his YouTube channel.

Kohli’s selection was dependent on his fitness, but he recently cleared all the required tests. Earlier this year, he enjoyed a productive ODI series against New Zealand, scoring 240 runs in three matches at an average of 80, including a century and a half-century.

Jaiswal’s ODI Record

Jaiswal has made a promising start to his ODI career. In the second ODI against Afghanistan, he managed only four runs after captain Shubman Gill batted at No. 3. However, he bounced back brilliantly in the final match, remaining unbeaten on 110 during India’s successful chase.

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So far, Jaiswal has played six ODIs and scored 285 runs at an impressive average of 71.25. He already has two centuries to his name, with the first coming against South Africa.

De Villiers on Pant and Samson Missing Out

De Villiers also shared his views on the wicketkeeper-batter selections. Both Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson were left out of the squad for the England ODIs.

According to De Villiers, Samson may have been closer to selection than Pant. However, the selectors have continued to show faith in KL Rahul while also rewarding Ishan Kishan for his recent performances.

Kishan justified that faith during the Afghanistan series, smashing a quickfire 125 and strengthening his case for a regular place in the ODI side.

India vs England ODI Series Schedule

India’s three-match ODI series against England will begin on July 14 at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The second match will be played at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff on July 16, while the third and final ODI is scheduled for July 19 at Lord’s in London. 


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