Veteran spinner Harbhajan Singh has weighed in on the competition for the opener's spot in India's playing XI for the ICC Champions Trophy, emphasizing that Yashasvi Jaiswal faces an uphill battle to secure a place. This comes in light of the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) decision to appoint Shubman Gill as vice-captain, effectively cementing Gill's spot at the top of the order alongside skipper Rohit Sharma.

Harbhajan highlighted the reasoning behind Gill's elevation to the leadership role, seeing it as part of a long-term plan to prepare him for greater responsibilities in the future as Rohit Sharma approaches the twilight of his career.

On his YouTube channel, Harbhajan said:

There was a lot of talk about Jaiswal's selection, with many arguing that he should have been picked after proving his readiness in Australia. People not only wanted him in the squad but also in the playing XI. However, this has become more challenging now, as Shubman Gill has been named vice-captain. Given that Gill holds this role, he will be the one to open the batting.

Despite Jaiswal's remarkable performances in Test cricket and his left-handed batting style offering variety at the top, the dynamics of team composition and Gill's consistency in ODIs have made it challenging for the young southpaw to break into the XI. Harbhajan acknowledged Jaiswal's merit and the strong case for his inclusion, but with Gill's prolific run in 50-over cricket, the team management appears to have its opening pair settled.

Jaiswal, who has yet to make his ODI debut, was selected for the Champions Trophy squad following a stellar showing in Tests during India's tour of Australia. His performances in the T20 format have further showcased his adaptability and potential, but the team management's confidence in Gill's consistency and leadership qualities places the young left-hander in a backup role for now.

‘In case Yashasvi opens, Gill will have…’

Harbhajan Singh further delved into the tactical implications of including Yashasvi Jaiswal in the playing XI, suggesting that the only viable way for him to fit into the lineup would be to replace Shubman Gill. However, with Gill's elevation to vice-captain, such a move is no longer feasible.

The veteran spinner highlighted the domino effect of adjusting the batting order to accommodate Jaiswal:

"In case Yashasvi opens, Gill will have to move down to three and Virat Kohli to four. But then where will Shreyas Iyer bat? The train gets derailed."

Harbhajan also expressed concern over missing the opportunity to capitalize on Jaiswal's current form, emphasizing that players in peak form deserve chances to prove themselves on the big stage.

"I feel Yashasvi should have played because a cricketer should be given a chance when he is in form.Had Shubman Gill not been named vice-captain, Jaiswal would likely have been included in the playing XI. However, with Gill now holding the vice-captaincy, it becomes impossible to drop him from the team.

Jaiswal's selection as part of the Champions Trophy squad was widely anticipated due to his outstanding performances in recent Tests and his left-handed option at the top. However, Harbhajan's analysis underscores how leadership decisions and team balance have restricted his chances in the starting XI. While Jaiswal remains a promising talent, the current setup prioritizes stability and continuity, with Gill firmly entrenched in the opening slot alongside Rohit Sharma.

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