Mumbai opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has received a significant call-up, being included in the India squad for the World Test Championship (WTC) final as a stand-by player. The decision comes after Ruturaj Gaikwad, initially selected as a stand-by opener, informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about his marriage scheduled for June 3-4. As a result, Jaiswal has been asked by the team management to begin practising with the red ball and will be flying to London in the coming days, facilitated by his possession of a UK visa.
Jaiswal has been enjoying a remarkable season, showcasing his impressive form. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing the Rajasthan Royals, he amassed 625 runs in 14 matches. In the Ranji Trophy, he also accumulated 404 runs across five games, further strengthening his credentials for a national team call-up.
Initially, Gaikwad had informed the BCCI that he would be available to join the team after June 5. However, Coach Rahul Dravid opted for a replacement, leading to Jaiswal’s inclusion as a stand-by opener. Speaking on the matter, a BCCI official stated, “He (Jaiswal) will be joining the Indian team as Gaikwad has informed us that he won’t be able to fly due to his marriage. He would be able to join the team post-June 5. (But) Coach Rahul Dravid took a call, asking the selectors to pick a replacement. So, Jaiswal will now fly to London soon.”
The Indian team’s preparations for the WTC final are well underway, with captain Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan set to depart for London on May 28. Suryakumar Yadav will follow on May 30, alongside Mohammed Shami, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja, who will be participating in the IPL final on Sunday. Several members of the Indian squad have already reached London and commenced training sessions.
Moreover, during the ICC World Test Championship final, the BCCI secretary Jay Shah revealed that the board would announce the ICC ODI World Cup schedule. However, the Asian Cricket Council members will determine the fate of the Asia Cup.
Regarding women’s cricket, Shah mentioned that discussions with broadcasters are underway to finalize a window for the next edition of the Women’s Premier League, aimed to take place before March 2024.
To address player injuries effectively, the Indian board has established a structured approach wherein each state association will appoint a Strength and Conditioning coach along with a Sports Science and Sports Medicine team. Candidates for these roles will undergo interviews conducted by a panel at the National Cricket Academy.
Additionally, plans are in motion for tours involving the India ‘A’ team, with ongoing discussions between the BCCI, England, and New Zealand.
