‘When the King Comes Back…’ AB de Villiers Feels for Yashasvi Jaiswal After Kohli’s Return Leaves Him Out

India’s ODI squad for the upcoming England series has sparked fresh debate, and at the centre of it is young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal.

The 24-year-old batter, who made a powerful statement with an unbeaten century in his last ODI, has once again been left out of the squad. And now, former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has spoken out, admitting he feels for the youngster.

Jaiswal had been drafted into India’s ODI side during the South Africa series as a replacement for an injured Virat Kohli. Instead of just filling in, he grabbed the spotlight.

In the final ODI, Jaiswal smashed a breathtaking 110 off just 86 balls*, steering India to a comfortable chase of 219 in just 28.4 overs.

It looked like the innings could cement his place.

But cricket doesn’t always work that way.

With Kohli returning from injury for the England series, Jaiswal has found himself pushed out once again.

And AB de Villiers believes it’s one of those harsh realities of international cricket.

“Virat Kohli back. A little bit of a tough one on Jaiswal, who was back in Virat’s place, scoring the hundred and now he’s got to make way,” AB said.

He added that while the decision may feel unfair, it makes complete sense when a player of Kohli’s stature returns.

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“When the King comes back, when the main players come back, there is a process they are looking at. It makes sense for Virat to step in there and maintain the form he showed in the IPL,” de Villiers explained.

The remark highlights the challenge young players often face in a star-packed Indian setup — even strong performances don’t always guarantee a place.

De Villiers also expressed sympathy for Sanju Samson, who also missed out despite showing solid form in recent months.

The former Proteas star felt Samson was closer to selection than many expected.

“Samson must have been close. He had a really good IPL and showed signs of form even before that,” he said.

India’s squad for the England ODIs sees Shubman Gill leading the side, alongside experienced stars like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, and Jasprit Bumrah.

While the return of senior players strengthens India’s lineup, it also leaves talented youngsters like Jaiswal waiting for another opportunity.

And if his last ODI knock is any indication, he may not have to wait too long.

But for now, as AB de Villiers put it — when the king returns, someone has to make way.