When journalists asked Gautam Gambhir whether two standout players from the recent series might be part of India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad, his response was forthright. He reminded everyone: “Look, first we have got to realise that ODI World Cup is two years away from now. The most important thing is to stay in the present.”
Gambhir emphasised that speculating about a World Cup two years down the line distracts from what’s happening right now. His message was clear: the team must play today’s matches with purpose, rather than projecting far ahead.
Young batsmen delivered — but not regulars yet
Despite the reluctance to look ahead, the series against South Africa national cricket team offered glimpses of fresh talent. Virat Kohli was adjudged Player of the Series — but two other batters also made significant noise. Ruturaj Gaikwad blasted 105 off 83 balls in Raipur’s second game, while Yashasvi Jaiswal crafted a brilliant unbeaten 116 in the final match of the series. That innings earned him the Player of the Match award as Indians sealed the series with a nine-wicket win in Visakhapatnam.
What makes these knocks more remarkable — and telling — is that neither Gaikwad nor Jaiswal is a regular in India’s ODI setup. Their inclusion came largely because regular batsmen Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer were unavailable due to injuries.
Gambhir lauds the youngsters — but keeps expectations grounded
Even while deflecting long-term squad speculation, Gambhir spoke highly of both newcomers. About Gaikwad, he said: “It’s also important that young boys coming into the set-up are grabbing their opportunities. Someone like Ruturaj Gaikwad, who batted out of position … We wanted to give him an opportunity in this series for the kind of form he was in with India A. He actually grabbed that opportunity with both hands … getting a hundred in the second game, when we were under pressure.”
On Jaiswal too, Gambhir commented: “Yashasvi as well. We have seen how much quality he has… Obviously, it’s just the start of his career, especially in white-ball cricket. Hopefully, he has a massive future ahead, and so is the case with Ruturaj.”
In short, while Gambhir acknowledged the promise shown by these young batsmen — especially under pressure — he maintained a measured stance. Their performances earned praise, but not lofty guarantees. For now, the focus remains on consistent performances in the present, rather than premature projections toward a future tournament.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
