Yashasvi Jaiswal has often shown his flair and fire, but at The Oval on the third day, he showcased a rarely seen facet of his batting, one built on composure, control, and clarity.
After two consecutive second-innings ducks, the young opener responded with a mature knock that steadied India’s innings and unsettled an understrength England attack.
“He had to adapt, and he did. Today, we saw a different side of Yashasvi. He avoided expansive drives outside off and focused on balls closer to the stumps. He managed the partnership with Akash Deep really well, even guiding the running between wickets,” observed former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar.
“Apart from his own innings, the way he controlled the tempo and helped build a century stand was impressive. Once he got through the initial phase – especially after getting out for a duck in the second innings of his last two Tests – he looked settled and determined. With the English bowlers tiring and a bowler short, I don’t think he’ll settle for anything less than a big score,” he added while speaking on Jio Hotstar.
Varun Aaron also reflected on India’s approach with the bat heading into the second session and said: “At the start of the day, we discussed how important it was to keep the scoreboard ticking. With Akash Deep at the other end, Jaiswal could take a more measured approach, which he did well. But once Shubman Gill joins him and Jaiswal reaches his hundred, I think we’ll see him return to the aggressive style we saw yesterday. India needs to sense when they have the upper hand, especially when the part-time spinners come on and press forward. In a Test like this, with the series on the line, capitalising on momentum is key. Accelerating at the right time could help set up a big lead and put pressure on England’s Bazball approach.”