With Kohli sidelined due to a hamstring injury, the BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, opted to bring in Yashasvi Jaiswal. Chopra believes the move was justified, arguing that Gaikwad currently fits into India’s plans as a middle-order batter rather than an opener.
Speaking on the issue, Chopra pointed out that Gaikwad is already gaining valuable experience with India A, where he is serving as vice-captain and recently scored a century batting at No. 4 in the tri-series against Sri Lanka A. According to him, even if Gaikwad had been selected for the senior squad, he would have been unlikely to feature in the playing XI.
Chopra explained that India’s top order is largely settled, and opportunities in the middle order are limited. While Jaiswal could potentially step in as an opener if Rohit Sharma is unavailable, Gaikwad’s preferred role remains in the middle order, where he is currently being assessed.
The former cricketer also highlighted the practical aspect of retaining Jaiswal in the squad, noting that the youngster was already part of India’s setup following the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Keeping him with the senior team made logistical and strategic sense.
Chopra further stressed that regular game time with India A would benefit Gaikwad more than sitting on the bench with the national team. He believes the right-handed batter should continue building his case through consistent performances whenever opportunities arise.
After a disappointing IPL campaign, Gaikwad responded in style by smashing a brilliant century for India A against Sri Lanka A in Dambulla on June 8, underlining his credentials for future selection.
