Duckett Clarifies Controversial Jaiswal Comment, Credits McCullum for Batting Transformation
Yashasvi Jaiswal, the young Indian batter, made history during the five-match Test series against England in January 2023. The 22-year-old amassed a staggering 712 runs, including two double centuries and two tons, helping India secure a dominant 4-1 series victory. Jaiswal’s aggressive batting earned him a place alongside Sunil Gavaskar as the only Indian batters to score 700-plus runs in a Test series.
However, during the series, a comment from England batter Ben Duckett sparked controversy. Duckett claimed that Jaiswal’s fiery technique was a result of the influence of English batters. This statement drew widespread criticism, with many former cricketers and pundits accusing Duckett of downplaying Jaiswal’s talent.
Eight months later, Duckett has clarified his remarks. “It was actually me paying him (Jaiswal) a nice compliment,” Duckett told Daily Mail. “I’m pretty sure I said he was a world-class player, but no one spoke about that.”
Duckett also revealed the impact of red-ball coach Brendon McCullum’s words on his approach to batting. “It was Baz (McCullum) who said: ‘Why do you have to go and bat like these previous openers? Why can’t you be the best version of yourself?’ That’s what I am,” Duckett explained.
Despite his success, Duckett remains driven to improve. “I’m the kind of guy who’s never satisfied,” he said. “I want the next two years to be even better. My batting has felt like it has gone to a different level.”
