‘He brings that fearlessness’ - Wasim Jaffer names youngster who can replace Ishan Kishan for 3rd T20I against WI

Ishan Kishan (Source- Twitter)

Former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer wants Ishan Kishan to be dropped from the third T20I squad for youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal. Kishan opened the innings in the first two matches of the ongoing five-match T20I series, which India trail by 0-2. Kishan, so far, has not been able to shine in two games, with a total of 33 runs in two games. Clearly, the pressure is on the visiting side to make a comeback in the series, as they take on the Caribbean side on August 8 again. 

However, Jaffer's statement that Jaiswal should come in the playing XI for Ishan is not far-fetched, as the young left-handed batter was in tremendous form in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 for Rajasthan Royals and scored his maiden Test century on this tour. So, Jaffer's suggestion about Jaiswal getting the place in the upcoming clash is valid. 

The former opening batter, further pointed out that the 21-year-old brings out fearlessness in the squad as he can play fast bowlers with that same ease, so he should be getting a chance for the third game as India is struggling to make big partnerships at the start of the innings. Jaffer also pointed out Tilak Varma’s name in this argument and said that as he has shined in both games of his debut series, it can also happen with uncapped Jaiswal in 20-over fixtures. 

Yashasvi Jaiswal got runs in Tests and he’s looking for an opportunity - Wasim Jaffer

“I would pick Yashasvi Jaiswal without a doubt just because he brings that fearlessness. He plays spin well and his batting against fast bowling is exemplary. He’s right at the peak of his game, high on confidence, so why not throw him in the mix and see what you get? He’s got runs in Tests and he’s looking for an opportunity. You might get a breath of fresh air like you did with Tilak Varma, so why not?” Wasim Jaffer said to ESPNCricinfo.

In the end, Hardik Pandya-led side will be looking to win the third T20I game to avoid the series lost as it will be Men in Blue last lost against West Indies way back in 2006. While in the second T20I, the Indian side managed 152 runs batting first, Rovman Powell-led side scored down the target with seven balls remaining and two wickets in hand.