Yashasvi Jaiswal has started working on wicketkeeping ahead of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season, but former India opener Wasim Jaffer is not convinced.
With Jaiswal struggling to find a place in India’s ODI and T20I teams, is this really the right move, or should he focus on his batting?
Mumbai captain Siddhesh Lad recently revealed that Jaiswal has been practising wicketkeeping as a backup skill, alongside batting and leg spin.
Wasim Jaffer believes wicketkeeping is not a skill that can be developed quickly, especially in Test cricket. He pointed out that India already have several wicketkeeping options, including Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan.
He also questioned where Jaiswal would fit in, suggesting that the move could be aimed at improving his chances in white ball cricket.
Wasim Jaffer even called the idea a bit of a joke and advised Jaiswal to focus on his batting ahead of the Ranji Trophy and India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand.
His concern is understandable, as keeping wickets is physically demanding and requires years of practice to master at the highest level.
Jaiswal remains an established option in India’s Test setup, but his place in the ODI and T20I sides is not as secure.
Instead of adding another skill in the hope of earning a white ball spot, could he benefit more from scoring consistently and making his case with the bat? Wicketkeeping may open another door, but his batting remains his biggest strength.
