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India‘s young batting sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal scripted history on Saturday (November 23), the second day of the first Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 Test in Perth, Australia. Despite a challenging start to the match, where he registered a duck in the first innings, Jaiswal showcased immense grit and determination in the second innings. His unbeaten knock of 90 runs off 193 balls was a testament to his adaptability and temperament, as he played a crucial role in guiding India to a dominant position alongside KL Rahul. This innings not only highlighted his ability to perform under pressure but also saw him break a remarkable world record.
A record-breaking achievement by Yashasvi Jaiswal
Jaiswal’s second-innings effort was characterized by patience and precision, and it culminated in a significant milestone. With two sixes during his knock, Jaiswal overtook Brendon McCullum’s record of 33 sixes in a single calendar year in Test cricket, which had stood since 2014. Jaiswal’s tally now stands at 34 sixes for 2024, making him the leading six-hitter in a year in Test history. Earlier this year, he had already surpassed Virender Sehwag’s record of 22 sixes, the highest by an Indian batter in a calendar year, which was set in 2008. This achievement underlines Jaiswal’s blend of power and precision, marking him as one of the most impactful players in contemporary Test cricket.
Most Sixes in Test Cricket (Calendar Year):
- Yashasvi Jaiswal: 34 sixes (2024)*
- Brendon McCullum: 33 sixes (2014)
- Ben Stokes: 26 sixes (2022)
Jaiswal’s sixes came in the latter stages of his innings, highlighting his ability to shift gears. The first, a flat flick off Mitchell Starc over deep backward square, demonstrated his impeccable timing and wristwork. The second, a colossal 100-meter six off Nathan Lyon over long-on, showcased his brute strength and fearless approach. These shots were a reflection of his versatility as a batter, capable of adapting to various situations and executing audacious strokes under pressure.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul joins an elite list with remarkable batting on Day 2 of Perth Test
A partnership for the ages with KL Rahul
Jaiswal’s resilience was complemented Rahul’s composure as the duo put together an unbeaten 172-run stand for the opening wicket. This partnership is now the second-highest for India in Tests on Australian soil, a testament to their ability to negotiate challenging conditions and make the most of favorable ones. Both batters exhibited immense patience, waiting for the loose deliveries to score, which was a marked contrast to the chaotic first day that saw 17 wickets fall. Rahul, who remained unbeaten on 62, played the perfect foil to Jaiswal’s aggression, ensuring India built a significant lead. Their partnership laid a solid foundation for India, allowing them to seize complete control of the match.
Jaiswal’s consistency in 2024 in test cricket
Since making his red-ball debut in 2023, Jaiswal has established himself as one of India’s most reliable Test batters. In 2024, he has amassed an impressive 1,209 runs at an average of 57.5, underlining his consistency and hunger for runs. His tally is second only to England’s Joe Root, who has scored 1,338 runs in 14 Tests at an average of just over 58. Root’s runs include five centuries and four fifties, whereas Jaiswal has compiled two centuries and eight fifties. With potentially three more Tests left in the calendar year, including the ongoing innings, Jaiswal has a golden opportunity to surpass Root’s tally and finish as the highest run-scorer in Test cricket for 2024.
