Chopra says consistent Rajasthan Royals opener remains ignored despite impressive IPL performances recently
New Delhi
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has backed Rajasthan Royals opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, saying the left-handed batter’s consistent performances in IPL 2026 are not receiving the attention they deserve.
Jaiswal has quietly enjoyed another productive season for Rajasthan Royals, scoring 306 runs in nine matches and playing a key role in the franchise’s strong campaign. However, much of the spotlight has shifted to his opening partner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the 15-year-old sensation who has amassed 400 runs, including a century, at a staggering strike rate above 238.
Chopra expressed surprise that Jaiswal is rarely discussed in India’s T20 selection conversations despite maintaining impressive numbers over multiple IPL seasons.
“Look at his numbers in the last three years. He was part of India’s T20 World Cup 2024-winning squad and then got dropped. Everyone gets selected and dropped, but no one talks about him,” Chopra said.
The former opener clarified that he was not necessarily demanding immediate national selection for Jaiswal but felt the batter deserved greater recognition for his consistency and impact.
“I understand there may not be a vacant place in the team right now, but he is doing everything correctly. He scores runs every season, maintains a strong average and strike rate, yet he isn’t even part of the conversation,” Chopra added.
Jaiswal last featured prominently in India’s T20 setup during the 2024 World Cup campaign. He was later rested for the T20I series against England in 2025, after which players like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson strengthened their positions in the squad.
The Rajasthan Royals batter was also overlooked for the Asia Cup and has not played a T20 International in nearly two years.
India are scheduled to play upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe and Ireland later this year, and strong IPL performances could still reopen the doors for Jaiswal’s return to the national side.
