Yashasvi Jaiswal has quickly established himself as a formidable talent in Indian cricket, particularly in the longer formats. Despite his impressive performances, including a remarkable Test debut and a stellar run in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he has yet to earn an ODI cap. With the Champions Trophy approaching on February 19, 2025, the question arises: should Jaiswal be considered as an opener for India?

At just 23 years old, Jaiswal has made significant strides in his career. He became the youngest player to score a double century in List A cricket at 17 and has accumulated over 3,000 runs in T20 cricket at an impressive strike rate of 150.23. His First-Class average of 62.40 further highlights his potential as a top-order batsman. In Test cricket, he has already amassed 1,798 runs in just 36 innings, showcasing his ability to perform on the big stage.

Currently, India’s opening pair consists of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill, who have proven successful together, averaging over 72 runs per partnership in ODIs. However, with both players struggling during their recent tour of Australia, the selectors face a dilemma. While Rohit and Gill have solid records, Jaiswal's exceptional form makes him a compelling option for the Champions Trophy.

Jaiswal's absence from ODI matches since November 2022 raises concerns about his readiness for the format. However, his maturity and skill set suggest he could seamlessly transition into the ODI lineup. The upcoming three ODIs against England could serve as a crucial opportunity to assess both Gill and Jaiswal's compatibility at the top of the order.

The Indian team's composition leans heavily towards right-handed batsmen, which presents another argument for including Jaiswal as a left-handed opener. This would not only diversify the batting lineup but also provide a tactical advantage against spin bowling—a significant factor given India's struggles against spinners in previous series.

Ultimately, while Rohit and Gill have established themselves as a reliable opening pair, Jaiswal's current form and potential make him a strong candidate for inclusion in India's Champions Trophy squad.