If I was the selector, I would have signed Yashasvi Jaiswal today itself for World Cup: Suresh Raina

Former India and CSK batter Suresh Raina lavished massive praise on Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) Yashasvi Jaiswal following his blazing knock against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). The flamboyant Royals opener hammered an unbeaten 98 off 47 balls to win the clash against Kolkata on Thursday, May 11.

The batter recorded the fastest IPL half-century as he swiftly hit the ground running from the first over. Notably, Jaiswal targeted 26 runs off the first over against Nitish Rana, which also is the joint-second most expensive first over in the top-tier league. His overall innings included 12 boundaries and five sixes at an excellent strike rate of 208.51. 

Impressed with his blazing knock, former India batter Raina made a big revelation as he stated that he would have included Jaiswal in India’s forthcoming ODI World Cup squad, had he been the selector. He further added that the young southpaw reminds him of former India explosive hitter Virender Sehwag, with regard to his batting approach.

“If I was the Indian selector, I would have signed him today itself for the World Cup because he is in a very fresh mind. He reminds me of Virender Sehwag. I'm sure Rohit Sharma will be watching this because he will be searching for batters like him for the World Cup,” Raina said on JioCinema following the blazing knock.

Jaiswal has aggregated 575 runs in just 12 matches at a stunning average of 52.27, lacing it with one century and four fifties. Notably, team India is yet to announce the contingent for the mega ODI event which will be held in India in October.

It remains to be seen if the young sensation makes his place in the setup for the marquee event following his sensational campaign in the 16^th edition. Meanwhile, Rajasthan’s win against KKR saw them climb up to the third spot in the IPL Points Table and the side will be gunning to cement their place in the playoffs.