Yashasvi Jaiswal, the 22-year-old Indian opener, has emerged as a formidable force in Test cricket, amassing 1,217 runs in just 11 matches at an impressive average of 64.05. His twin fifties in the second Test against Bangladesh solidified his status as one of the most dangerous batsmen in the format.
Former India pacer and selector Salil Ankola, who played a key role in Jaiswal’s selection for the Mumbai Ranji team, recalls that the young left-hander’s initial struggles in red-ball cricket raised doubts about his suitability for the format. However, Ankola’s instincts told him otherwise.
“He has the attitude, flair, and guts-that street-smartness you want in a cricketer,” Ankola said. “I felt Jaiswal had that. His selection was against all odds, but I trusted my instincts.”
Jaiswal’s performances in the 2022 Ranji Trophy, where he scored 498 runs in three matches with three centuries, vindicated Ankola’s faith. Ankola first recognized Jaiswal’s potential during an Under-19 World Cup match against Pakistan in 2020, where the young batsman scored an unbeaten 105.
“I knew this guy was special, and he proved it,” Ankola said. “He’s got great timing and power-a rare combination. His ‘flow’ is tremendous, as is his bat speed and swing. That’s what struck me about him.”
Ankola believes Jaiswal’s adaptability, mental strength, and determination make him an all-format player. “He adapts to any surface and conditions quickly,” Ankola said. “He’s mentally strong and super fit. He handles pressure well. If he must take 300 balls to make a century, he’ll do that, and if he needs to score a hundred in 50 balls, he’ll do that too.”
With his exceptional talent and unwavering determination, Yashasvi Jaiswal is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian Test team for years to come.
