Irfan Pathan wants Yashasvi Jaiswal given chances in West Indies ODI series

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has backed Yashasvi Jaiswal, saying he should be given a chance in the upcoming ODI series against West Indies. The three-match ODI series between India and West Indies begins on September 27.

Jaiswal has so far been the backup opener in the Indian team, but has made the most of every opportunity he has got. The left-handed batter has scored two centuries in six ODIs so far. He has carved out a place for himself in the opening slot after captain Shubman Gill and star batter Rohit Sharma. India will play the three-match ODI series against West Indies at home from September 27. Pathan is keen to see what kind of opportunities the team management gives the left-hander, so that he can maintain his rhythm ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

Pathan shared a video on his social media platform X via Star Sports. In it, he says that in this series, his eye will be on one player, and that player is Yashasvi Jaiswal. He said he is keen to see how many chances Jaiswal gets, especially in this ODI series against West Indies. Pathan further said that one thing is certain, that Jaiswal is the backup opener. He is currently the team's third opener. By the time the team reaches the ODI World Cup in South Africa, it should not be the case that the backup opener has not been given proper chances. So it is important for him to see Jaiswal play whenever he gets the opportunity.

India has sent its strong squad to the Asian Games, which is why some new cricketers will get a chance to play in this series against West Indies. These include Naman Dhir, who has been picked for the Indian team for the first time, Aqib Nabi, who has been picked for ODIs for the first time, and Nitish Kumar Reddy. According to Pathan, this series against West Indies will be an opportunity for these players. Shreyas, Axar and Washington Sundar have gone for the Asian Games, so they are not in this squad. That is why this is a big opportunity for the remaining players. Pathan said this is, in a way, a different team, in which several players are being tried out. Nitish Kumar Reddy will get a chance, Jurel will get a chance, and Aqib Nabi will also get a chance. He also said that this will be an excellent opportunity for Gurnoor Brar to further his international cricket career.