In a spectacular display of counterattacking prowess, Yashasvi Jaiswal, the talented opener for India, showcased his Test cricket acumen against the England team, leaving seasoned all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin thoroughly impressed. As the first day of the 1st Test unfolded at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Rohit Sharma’s Team India dominated the English bowlers, particularly thanks to Jaiswal’s fearless batting.
Jaiswal’s Commanding Performance
After England’s subpar first-inning score of 246, Rohit Sharma and company seized control with aggressive batting. Although Rohit’s contribution was cut short at 24 off 27 balls, Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his onslaught, achieving his maiden half-century on Indian soil. The left-handed batsman concluded the day unbeaten alongside Shubman Gill, narrowing England’s lead to a mere 127 runs.
Ashwin’s Praise and Comparison
Veteran spinner Ashwin, reflecting on Jaiswal’s exceptional performance, drew parallels between the young opener and the power-hitting dynamo Rishabh Pant. “He (Jaiswal) had a great time in the IPL, had a wonderful start in first-class cricket. I am quite enjoying it. I am seeing Rishabh Pant there. His fearless cricket is serving him well. Yashaswi has not put a foot wrong; he has taken to Test cricket like a fish to water,” Ashwin remarked at the end of Day 1.
Jaiswal Joins Elite Company
Leading India’s assertive response against England, Jaiswal’s rapid-fire innings of 76 off 70 balls, accompanied by Gill’s contribution of a 43-ball 14, set the stage for an exciting battle. Jaiswal’s boundary-laden knock included nine fours and three sixes, elevating him to the exclusive company of Indian batters crossing the 70-run mark on Day 1, a list previously occupied only by Gautam Gambhir and KL Rahul.
Ashwin’s Prediction for Day 2
Having bowled 21 overs and claimed three wickets, Ashwin predicted India’s dominance if a batter reaches a century on Day 2. “240 was a very, very good competitive total. Thought 30-40 runs more than what we would have liked. Someone making a hundred tomorrow will put us in the driver’s seat,” remarked Ashwin, underlining the potential turning point in the upcoming stages of the 1st Test against England.
