Veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has raised pointed questions about the national selection committee's recent choices, suggesting that in-form batter Ruturaj Gaikwad was a viable option over Rishabh Pant for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand.
The Selection Conundrum: Gaikwad vs. Pant
Speaking on his YouTube show 'Ash ki Baat' on January 4, 2026, Ashwin dissected the squad selection. He identified the primary debate as a straight shootout between Gaikwad and Pant for a single batting spot. Ashwin firmly believes that Shreyas Iyer's return to the squad following his injury was non-negotiable and deserved.
"Could Gaikwad have been kept in the squad? I think that was a real possibility," Ashwin stated. "The only spot of contention is between Pant and Gaikwad. It was a straight decision... The debate is over who goes out. Between a second wicketkeeper and a batter, you can get a keeper from anywhere to cover."
Gaikwad's Form and Middle-Order Credentials
Ashwin's argument heavily leans on Ruturaj Gaikwad's recent spectacular century against South Africa. The young opener scored a sublime ton in the second ODI in Raipur on December 3, 2025. Ashwin highlighted how Gaikwad's knock demonstrated a masterful ability to handle both spin and pace while rotating the strike efficiently, drawing a parallel with Virat Kohli's style.
"Who will keep a track on Ruturaj Gaikwad's mindset now?" Ashwin pondered. "At four or five, I am sticking my neck out, his batting against spin and ability to run between wickets and close out an innings is phenomenal."
In contrast, Ashwin expressed reservations about Pant's suitability for the middle order in the 50-over format. "I personally don't think Pant can bat in the middle-order in white-ball cricket at the moment. I think he is a top-three batter," he added, implying that Gaikwad's skills are a better fit for the specific role required.
The Brutal Competition in Modern Indian Cricket
Ashwin concluded with a reflection on the intense competition for places in the current Indian setup, a scenario far more challenging than in previous eras. He acknowledged that Gaikwad might have to wait for a prolonged opportunity until stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retire.
"Ruturaj will get a long rope only when Rohit and Kohli decide to hang up their boots. Till then, getting a long run for him is going to be hard," Ashwin said.
He illustrated his point by recalling Kohli's early days. "When Kohli came into the team, there were not as many players knocking on the door with immense talent and Kohli's talent was shining through... The competition for places now is absolutely brutal." This statement underscores the difficult choices selectors face, even when a talented player like Gaikwad delivers a match-winning performance.
