Yashasvi Jaiswal Shines in Test Cricket, Earning Praise from Sanjay Manjrekar
Jaiswal's Impressive Performance in Test Cricket
Sanjay Manjrekar, a former Indian cricketer, has commended opener Yashasvi Jaiswal for his remarkable performance in Test cricket outside of Asia. He highlighted that Jaiswal's ability to play the ball late, his decisive footwork, and his relentless pursuit of runs have significantly contributed to his success in challenging conditions, particularly in South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia (SENA).
After a brief struggle at Lord's, Jaiswal returned to form during the first innings of the fourth Test in Manchester, scoring 58 runs off 107 balls, showcasing a blend of control and aggression.
Jaiswal's Journey as a Test Batter
Reflecting on Jaiswal's growth as a Test player since his debut in 2023 against the West Indies, Manjrekar noted on 'Match Centre Live' that Jaiswal's performance in tough conditions sets him apart from previous Indian batters who often excelled on home pitches. He emphasized that Jaiswal's first overseas tour to South Africa was particularly challenging, but his technique and determination are evident.
Despite a disappointing outing in South Africa, where he managed only 50 runs across four innings, Jaiswal rebounded impressively at home.
Turning Point Against England
Jaiswal's home series against England marked a significant turning point, as he amassed 712 runs in nine innings over four Tests, including two double centuries and three fifties. With a total of 1,091 runs in 10 home Tests at an average of 60.61, he entered the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia with accolades from the Australian media, who dubbed him the 'heir to the throne' of Virat Kohli.
His exchanges with renowned pacer Mitchell Starc during the series highlighted his confidence and skill, as he emerged as India's top scorer with 391 runs in 10 innings, averaging 43.44, including a standout 161 at Perth's Optus Stadium.
Continued Success on Foreign Soil
Jaiswal's overseas success continued with a century in his first Test match on English soil at Leeds, where he scored 101 runs. Currently, he ranks as the seventh-highest run-scorer in the series with 291 runs in seven innings, averaging 41.57, which includes a century and two fifties.
Overall, Jaiswal's record away from home is impressive, with 998 runs in 13 Tests and 24 innings at an average of 43.39, featuring three centuries and five fifties.
Praise for the Opening Pair
Manjrekar also praised the opening partnership between Jaiswal and KL Rahul, who scored 46 runs off 98 balls. Their 94-run stand was noted for its solid defensive technique and mental strength.
He remarked that India has struggled to find a reliable opening pair in overseas conditions, but this left-right combination appears dependable and capable of scoring consistently, which is a rarity.
On the first day of the Test, Manjrekar concluded that India made a strong statement against critics who doubted their ability to perform outside of flatter pitches.
Day 1 Performance Summary
At the end of Day 1, Team India stood at 264/4, with Shardul Thakur (19*) and Ravindra Jadeja (16*) at the crease. Rishabh Pant's retirement due to a foot injury at 37 was a significant setback for the team. The day saw half-centuries from Sai Sudharsan (61 runs off 151 balls) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (58 runs off 107 balls), marking the key contributions.
Skipper Ben Stokes was the standout bowler for England, taking 2 wickets for 47 runs, dismissing both Shubman Gill and Sudharsan.