For the ODI series against the West Indies, which starts in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27, 2026, Yashasvi Jaiswal has been added to India’s 15-man roster. The left-hander played in the home three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, but he was left out of the team for the visit to England that followed. Despite the tough environment for batting slots, his participation in the West Indies squad demonstrates the coaching staff’s faith in his ability.
The selection dynamics were discussed on Saturday by India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, who clarified that Jaiswal should not be treated unfairly because Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill are preferred as the opening duo. As the squad prepares for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Kotak highlighted that the left-hander is still a crucial component of India’s strategy.I believe there is a lot of competitiveness (for team spots) and a lot of players are competing. We all know that Jaiswal is one of the greatest hitters, and he excels anytime given the chance. Thus, he is a member of the team,” Kotak stated, as reported by The Times of India.
Why Yashasvi Jaiswal is still included in India’s plans
In order to explain the selection strategy, Kotak used a comparison, pointing out that sometimes having a number of excellent players means that not everyone can feature at the same time. He emphasised that Jaiswal’s absence from some squads is not a reflection of the player’s shortcomings, but rather of the depth of India’s batting resources.We take care of his abilities, practice, and mindset as support staff, and Gautam (Gambhir) also communicates with him frequently. However, there are instances when, for instance, only one of three excellent wicketkeepers can play,” Kotak continued.
Since making his ODI cricket debut on February 6, 2025, against England, Jaiswal has left a lasting impression. With an excellent batting average of 71.25, the left-hander has participated in six ODI matches. In December 2025, he achieved his first ODI century of 116 not out against South Africa. In his most recent ODI, he hit an undefeated 110 off 86 balls against Afghanistan.
Kotak explained how the coaching team shares knowledge to speed up development, highlighting the role of seasoned players in mentoring younger squad members. Gautam Gambhir, the head coach, has actively participated in these discussions with Jaiswal, demonstrating the team’s commitment to his development.You see, selling experience is the key. They do that every time. Every veteran player I’ve seen, even Gautam because he was playing, has a certain level of experience, and they always communicate to other players who are experiencing similar conditions or situations,” he continued.
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India’s coaching staff uses a series-by-series method to plan for the West Indies series and beyond, identifying particular conditions and problems to overcome in each assignment. The team plans to prepare for a variety of scenarios by using the distinct playing circumstances that the forthcoming New Zealand series, which is scheduled outside of Asia, would bring.We will therefore be doing (planning) series by series going forward. Fortunately, our New Zealand series is located outside of Asia. Therefore, there will be some distinct conditions—grass, dampness, etc.—Kotak said.
