Emerging as one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket history, Yashasvi Jaiswal has been the lynchpin of India’s batting talent in the series against England. In the Rajkot Test, Jaiswal scored his second century in the longest format of the game. Seeing the young lad taking the cricket world by storm, his childhood coach Arif Hussain reminisced about old times when he admitted the young left-handed batter to his academy years ago. It was Jaiswal’s talent that made his stand out from the beginning.
Since being admitted to Hussain’s academy in 2007-08, Jaiswal cemented his place in the senior side within the first year.
“We always believed there was something special in Yashasvi,” Arif was quoted as saying by India Today.
“We made plans and took him to Mumbai, providing transportation training, and now the results speak for themselves.” Reflecting on Yashasvi’s early talent, Hussain recalled, “He was brilliant from the start, a sparkle we witnessed, and today, the results are evident to all. I remember admitting him to my academy in 2007-8, and within a year, he secured a place in the senior team, where we provided him with every opportunity.”
Hussain also credited the Mumbai Cricket Association for giving Yashasvi the platform to hone his skills.
“It is with their support that Yashasvi shines like a diamond, contributing to numerous individuals worldwide,” he asserted.
Reflecting on Yashasvi’s qualities, Hussain noted, “He has worked diligently, shown great resilience, and displayed leadership qualities. Fear has never hindered him; there’s something special within him.”
In the Rajkot Test, Jaiswal didn’t just bring up the second double ton of his career but also did so in a stunning manner. The opening batter hit a whopping 12 sixes in the innings, matching Wasim Akram’s world record.
In the process, Jaiswal also became the first batter in the history of the game to his 20 sixes in a single Test series. With two matches still to go, the batter is expected to further strengthen his case.
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