Mohammad Kaif picks Shreyas Iyer’s replacement for IND vs SA 2025 ODIs

Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has picked Dhruv Jurel to replace Shreyas Iyer in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. Iyer is likely to be ruled out of the series after he suffered a serious injury while playing in Australia.

Meanwhile, Dhruv Jurel has been in terrific form but returned with scores of 14 and 13 in the opening Test match against South Africa. Jurel had impressed in the two Test matches against the West Indies in the absence of injured Pant as he had scored 175 runs in three innings at an average of 87.50. However, with Pant returning to India’s Test squad, it would be interesting to note India’s playing combination.

The right-hander recently returned with scores of 132 and 127 in the second unofficial Test against South Africa A while playing for India A. Kaif said Jurel has a solid technique to bat at number four.

“The backup batter in the previous ODI squad, whoever it is, he should get the chance, why should his chance be stolen? So, if Jurel was the back-up batter, then he would play. He has a solid technique to play at No.4, so why not? He is scoring runs, is in good form. He is ready, so he should play in the ODIs.” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.

“Coaches should look to make players, build players, rather than calling up players from here and there always, then play them and drop them, and the same cycle repeats. How can you then finalise a squad with a pool of 40-50 players? You should proceed with what you already have,” he added.

On the other hand, Kaif picked Sourav Ganguly as India’s best captain among MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. The former UP batter said Ganguly rescued Indian cricket when it was falling apart.

“Ganguly took charge when there were dark clouds hovering over Indian cricket. He paved the way out of that phase, and it is a route that is still being in use. So, it is not even a debate for me. On the basis of numbers, you can say that captains won this many ICC trophies and all. In that regard, Ganguly will be behind, but the way he rescued Indian cricket is something. Winning overseas and playing with aggression is something that Ganguly taught,” Kaif concluded.