Yashasvi Jaiswal’s meteoric rise in Test cricket
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s stunning 175 in the second Test against West Indies has once again placed him in the discussion about the greats of modern cricket. As mentors and legends applaud his consistency, the focus remains on how a 23-year-old from Mumbai is converting promising starts into historic innings. His journey, often described as a blend of grit and technique, underlines a larger narrative about preparation, mental strength and the ability to turn fifties into hundreds.
“Daddy hundreds” and the weight of expectations
When former star Brian Lara joked about not letting the bowlers off too easily after Jaiswal’s 175, it wasn’t merely banter. It was a public acknowledgment of the standard the youngster has set. Sunil Gavaskar’s cheeky encouragement to “keep getting the hundreds” captures the essence of a phase where Jaiswal is measured not just by big scores but by his capacity to change the game’s momentum. The term “daddy hundreds” has become a symbol of a player who can seal a match with a single monumental innings, a role Jaiswal is increasingly embracing.
Statistical brilliance that backs the narrative
Jaiswal’s numbers are a testament to his elite-level consistency. His five 150+ scores before turning 24 places him among the all-time greats, with only notable names like Don Bradman ahead for similar milestones. His conversion rate—roughly 39.6% for converting 50+ scores into hundreds at a comparable phase of his career—surpasses several legendary icons, including Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Brian Lara and Virat Kohli. With seven Test centuries by such a young age, he sits in company with opening greats like Graeme Smith, and his tally remains a talking point for coaches and pundits alike.
Hard work, sacrifice and the Mumbai influence
Experts describe a “khadoos mentality” that mirrors Mumbai’s tough cricket ecosystem. Mentor Zubin Bharucha highlights not just talent but the environment that forges resilience, discipline and a willingness to make sacrifices. From living in tents to pushing the boundaries of practice, Jaiswal’s preparation is framed as a near-spiritual commitment—an intensity that transcends natural talent alone.
The making of a complete batsman
Jaiswal’s development has included deliberate alterations to his strokeplay and a refined on-side game, along with a reserve sweep that became a hallmark. A dedication to perfecting shots—evidenced by long hours of practice, sometimes finishing sessions at 2 AM—reflects a mindset where each flaw is actively corrected. Fellow coaches and former players describe him as someone who absorbs feedback instantly, adjusting to facing varied challenges in different conditions.
Influence, comparisons and mentorship
Julian Wood, the Sri Lanka batting coach, compared Jaiswal’s capability to the clarity of Abhishek Sharma, praising his field control, body positioning and fearless shot selection. The admiration from Indian and international peers underscores a broader consensus: Jaiswal’s talent is complemented by a precise thinking process, a trust in fundamentals, and a willingness to learn from every innings. FormerPlayers like Pravin Amre and Wasim Jaffer have emphasized the left-hander’s resilience and his ability to convert starts into massive scores, suggesting even more milestones lie ahead.
Looking ahead: targets and mindset
As Jaiswal continues to sharpen his game, the conversations around his future inevitably turn to opportunities abroad and the next wave of commitments. The feedback he receives—especially the introspective discussions at odd hours—illustrates a player constantly recalibrating, asking questions about preparation for Australia and England and identifying areas to adjust when facing left-arm spinners. The combination of preparation, mental strength and ongoing learning makes his path toward bigger innings and continued breakthroughs clear.
