India's young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal created a stir by scoring a century in the first innings of his very first Test match in England. On the first day of the first Test being played in Leeds, Jaiswal played a composed and attractive innings of 101 runs in 159 balls. In this innings, he hit 16 fours and one six. The 23-year-old showed his class against the shining Dukes ball in one of the toughest grounds in England. Along with him, Test captain Shubman Gill also scored a century and put India in a strong position of 359 runs for 3 wickets by the end of the first day. It was the first day on foreign soil, and India took full control.
Jaiswal's technique looked strong, but what was most clear was his composure. He faced pace, swing and bounce with complete calm. The Mumbaikar's footwork was clean, and whether it was frontfoot-drive or backfoot cut, confidence was visible in every shot.
In the first 20 innings of his Test career, he has scored runs at an average of 54.26, which includes five centuries and 10 half-centuries. These figures seem like an established player, while his career is still in its early stages.
Suryakumar Yadav heaps praise on Yashasvi Jaiswal
Suryakumar Yadav praised him on Instagram and wrote, "Maahol Gritty hai bhai (The atmosphere is gritty)," he wrote in his story."JCB Jaiswal #YBJ6 &4ONLY," he added with a few emojis.
If India has to win this five-Test series, Jaiswal will have to play such innings again and again. The conditions in England change every moment, but Jaiswal showed the composure and preparation that will be useful on a long tour.
Can Jaiswal take Indian cricket to new heights?
Kohli and Rohit have retired from Tests and T20s. Now all eyes are on those who take over the burden of the next generation. Yashasvi Jaiswal is at the forefront of them. He has a hunger for the game, and he is not afraid even in front of Stokes.
If India wants to win in England, batsmen like Jaiswal will have to score big in every Test, no matter how the pitch is. The 23-year-old takes on the bowlers and likes to dominate with his attacking shots. However, with experience, he will learn to curb his instincts as well on good balls, which can take his wicket.
If he maintains this consistency for the next few years, he cannot be stopped. Be it Test or T20—Jaiswal fits in both, and a player who scores a century in the first innings on foreign pitches is not just an expectation, but also a name for responsibility.
Can Jaiswal bear this burden? Yes, the signs so far are positive, but this tour is long. He will have to settle even deeper to succeed in every test. If he can do this, then really, he can be the first big name after Kohli, along with Gill.
