Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to miss IPL 2025 [Source: @PunjabKingsIPL, @iMShami_/X.com]
India young star, Yashasvi Jaiswal, has suffered a right ankle injury and has been ruled out of Mumbai’s crucial Ranji Trophy semifinal against Vidarbha. He had earlier played in the second-stage match against Jammu and Kashmir alongside Rohit Sharma. According to The Times of India, Jaiswal is now heading to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for further evaluation of his injury.
With the IPL 2025 set to begin in March, there is a chance that he may not recover in time for the tournament, leaving Rajasthan Royals (RR) in need of a strong replacement.
Since his availability remains uncertain, RR must look for a backup option. It is important to mention that IPL teams are allowed to have up to eight overseas players in their squad, and RR currently has six. This means they could consider bringing in a foreign player as a replacement. Here are three players who could step in for Jaiswal in IPL 2025.
David Warner
David Warner is one of the most experienced and consistent batters in IPL history, making him a suitable option to replace Jaiswal. The Australian left-hander, who was once a key player for Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals, went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction after not being retained by DC.
Matches | Runs | SR | AVE | 100s | 50s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
184 | 6565 | 139.77 | 40.52 | 4 | 62 |
Table - David Warner's IPL Stats
Despite this, his record in the tournament speaks for itself. Warner has scored 6,565 runs in 184 matches at a strike rate of 139.77, including four centuries and 62 half-centuries. He has crossed the 500-run mark in a season seven times, a record he shares with Virat Kohli.
Warner’s ability to dominate in the powerplay and his experience in high-pressure matches make him a valuable option. His aggressive batting style closely resembles Jaiswal’s approach, making him a like-for-like replacement. If RR is looking for a seasoned performer who can provide stability at the top, Warner would be a smart choice.
Prithvi Shaw
Prithvi Shaw, a former Delhi Capitals opener, is another possible replacement for Jaiswal. Shaw went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, despite having a base price of INR 75 lakh. Once considered one of the most destructive young openers in Indian cricket, Shaw has struggled with consistency in recent seasons. However, he still has the potential to make an impact if given the right opportunity.
Matches | Runs | SR | AVE | 100s | 50s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
79 | 1892 | 147.47 | 23.95 | - | 14 |
Table - Prithvi Shaw's IPL Stats
Shaw has been part of the IPL since 2018 and has played 79 matches, scoring 1,892 runs at a strike rate of 147.47, including 14 half-centuries. His aggressive style of play and ability to take on bowlers early in the innings make him a suitable option for Jaiswal’s role. If RR decides to go for an Indian replacement rather than an overseas player, Shaw could be their best option. This could be a chance for him to prove his worth and revive his IPL career.
Ben Duckett
England left-handed batter Ben Duckett has been in impressive form in the shortest format of the game. In the recently concluded ODI series against India, Duckett showed his attacking approach by scoring 131 runs in three innings. His ability to play fearless cricket and adapt to different conditions makes him a potential replacement for Jaiswal.
Matches | Runs | SR | AVE | 100s | 50s |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
205 | 5159 | 140.38 | 30.89 | - | 33 |
Table - Ben Duckett's T20 Stats
Duckett has also performed well in franchise cricket. In the Big Bash League 2024-25, he scored 243 runs in seven matches at an average of 34.71 and a strike rate of 154.77, including three half-centuries. His aggressive intent and ability to play spin well could make him a good fit for Rajasthan Royals.