Talented India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is learning the ropes fast and has been trying to be fearless, as evident from his boundary-laden 25-ball 53 against Australia in the second T20 International here.
The 21-year-old right-hander struck nine fours and two sixes during his knock, giving India a rollicking start. He shared a 77-run partnership with Ruturaj Gaikwad (58) for the opening stand before getting out in the sixth over. India posted a mammoth 235 for 4 and restricted Australia to 191 for 9 for a 44-run win.
“It was really special for me. I was trying to play all my shots, be fearless, and take the bowlers on. I was fully sure with my decisions,” Jaiswal said after the match on Sunday. “I have been told by (captain) Surya (Kumar Yadav) and (coach) VVS (Laxman) bhai to express myself. I always think of how I can improve myself around experienced players and nothing else. Still learning.” Jaiswal, named player-of-the-match, mentioned that he was working on improving his fitness level as well as mental strength. “I really worked on my fitness and playing shots. I feel the mental aspect is more important at this level. Trying to get better each and every day,” said the youngster, who made his India debut this year. He has played two Tests and 10 T20 International matches so far.
When asked about his mix-up with Gaikwad in the first T20I in Visakhapatnam, which led to the latter’s run-out, Jaiswal said, “It was my mistake. I went to him and said sorry. (Marcus) Stoinis was between me; I was sure but then not sure. I made the wrong call. I accepted that it was a mistake, and it happens. Rutu bhai was humble and said in the gym that next time we are running, we will take secure singles.”
Rinku Singh, who has been playing the role of a finisher to perfection, said he was enjoying his batting.