Sports

ICC Champions Trophy: Jaiswal as backup opener? former India star predicts

Published by
Saurav Gupta

Yashasvi Jaiswal, a rising star in the Indian cricket team, may have to settle for a backup role in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy, according to former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik. Karthik suggests that Jaiswal is likely to be the reserve opener, with Shubman Gill expected to join captain Rohit Sharma at the top of the batting order.

As India gears up for the ICC tournament, the team is likely to stick with a strong, experienced lineup. Despite Jaiswal’s consistent performances, the seasoned Shubman Gill is expected to secure the opening spot over the young left-hander in ODIs.

“Jaiswal has a great chance to be the second-choice opener, and he might get his break if Shubman doesn’t perform as anticipated. India also boasts a very robust middle order,” Karthik mentioned in an interview with Cricbuzz.

Also read: Delhi: Chhatrasal Stadium, a bright spot in murky world of Indian wrestling

Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill have formed a reliable partnership in ODIs, as evidenced during the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they consistently gave India strong starts. With just three group stage matches in the Champions Trophy, Karthik believes India will likely stick with their established opening pair.

“In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, India is set to play only three more matches (against England at home in February). I’m quite certain that Rohit and Shubman will be the opening duo for the Champions Trophy,” Karthik added.

Meanwhile, the ICC is yet to make a final decision on whether Pakistan will host the entire Champions Trophy or if a hybrid model will be used, as the BCCI has reportedly opted not to travel to the neighbouring country.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already submitted its draft schedule to the ICC, with considerations for India’s matches. According to the draft, India is set to play all their games in Lahore, including a potential semi-final and final. The highly anticipated India vs Pakistan match is scheduled for March 1.

Also read: IND vs SL: Sri Lanka await historic win in 3rd ODI; Gambhir faces first series defeat

Saurav Gupta

With nearly six years of experience as a journalist, he has written extensively on developmental issues, policies, health, and government agency schemes across both print and digital platforms. He holds a BAJMC degree from IP University.

Published by
Saurav Gupta

Recent Posts

Metro footfall halved on October 10 amid protest curbs

DMRC says zero reduction in train trips, attributes decline to security measures and public apprehension…

October 19, 2026

Delhi court denies anticipatory bail to professor accused of rape, threatening student with videos

A Delhi court denied bail to a former DU professor accused of raping a student,…

October 19, 2026

Delhi Police files 500-page chargesheet in Manipuri musician’s murder case

Delhi Police charged seven dhaba workers in the fatal beating of a Manipuri musician who…

October 19, 2026

7 sewage treatment plants in Delhi fail discharge standards

Seven Delhi STPs failed DPCC standards in September, dumping high levels of faecal coliform and…

October 19, 2026

Neha Bora moves Delhi HC against police notice

AISA chief Neha Bora petitioned the Delhi HC against a police notice requiring a peace…

October 19, 2026

Delhi gets off to its most polluted October start in three years

Average AQI of 171 in the first week of this month; falling temperatures and stubble…

October 19, 2026