Yashasvi Jaiswal Reflects on Near Century as Shubman Gill Shines in Second Test
Jaiswal's Mixed Emotions After Near Miss
Yashasvi Jaiswal expressed his disappointment after narrowly missing a century, but he was equally impressed by Test captain Shubman Gill's remarkable performance that positioned India favorably at the conclusion of the first day of the second Test at Edgbaston.
Gill's dazzling 114 not out, alongside Jaiswal's resilient 87, became the highlight as India managed to avert another batting collapse on the typically friendly Birmingham pitch. Following KL Rahul's early dismissal for just 2 runs, Jaiswal emerged as a key player, skillfully balancing caution with aggression.
Jaiswal's Strategy and Performance
Navigating deliveries in the uncertain corridor, Jaiswal capitalized on those that fell within his striking range. Despite England's disciplined bowling, which restricted the Indian batsmen, Jaiswal discovered ways to score, accumulating runs and forming a 66-run partnership with Gill.
Reflections on Disappointment
Despite his efforts, Jaiswal fell agonizingly short of his second consecutive Test century in England, missing it by 13 runs. Under pressure from England captain Ben Stokes, Jaiswal edged a delivery outside off stump, which was caught by wicketkeeper Jamie Smith.
"Of course, there is disappointment. For me, it is disappointing, but it's okay. I think it's a part of the game, and I just need to keep learning. I want to enjoy the game because, in the end, it's just cricket, and cricket is a wonderful game," Jaiswal shared with reporters after the day's play.
Gill's Continued Success
Following Jaiswal's wicket, Gill maintained his momentum, forming an unbeaten 99-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja after the team lost Rishabh Pant and Nitish Kumar Reddy in quick succession.
Gill's record-breaking moment arrived when he swept part-time spinner Joe Root for a boundary, culminating in a memorable century in Birmingham.
"I think he's been amazing the way he's batting. It's just incredible to see him bat. As a captain, he's been fantastic, and he has a clear vision for the team. We are very confident in our approach," Jaiswal remarked about Gill.
Day One Summary
Gill and Jadeja continued their partnership until the umpires called stumps, with India finishing the first day at 310 for 5 after 85 overs.
