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The first day of the opening Test between India and England in Hyderabad unfolded with unexpected turns and twists, as the highly anticipated “Bazball” approach from England was countered by a remarkable innings from India’s young opener, Yashasvi Jaiswal. His aggressive display with the bat not only took the English bowlers by surprise but also earned him comparisons to the fearless Rishabh Pant, who has been a game-changer for India in the past.
England’s roller coaster start
Opting to bat first, the English innings began on a high note with Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett adopting an aggressive approach, putting up a quick 55 runs in just 11 overs. However, the entry of Indian spinners shifted the momentum, leading to a collapse of wickets in quick succession. Despite the fall of wickets, Jonny Bairstow and Joe Root provided stability, with Ben Stokes standing tall and anchoring the innings with an impressive 70 runs. England was eventually bundled out for 246.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s ‘Jaisball’ show
In a surprising turn of events, the second innings saw Yashasvi taking the English bowlers to the cleaners, showcasing an aggressive style of play that drew comparisons to England’s own ‘Bazball’ tactics. Opening alongside captain Rohit Sharma, Jaiswal formed a brilliant partnership, contributing significantly to India’s reply as the hosts finished Day 1 at a score of 119/1. Jaiswal’s explosive innings of 76 off just 70 balls, including nine boundaries and three sixes, left fans and experts in awe.
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Ashwin’s comparison of Yashasvi to Rishabh Pant
Following Jaiswal’s stellar performance, Ravichandran Ashwin, his teammate, showered praise on the young talent, drawing parallels with the absent Pant, who is out of cricketing action and is recovering from injuries sustained in a car crash. Notably, Pant is known for his fearless and hard-hitting approach and has been a crucial player for India in various formats.
Ashwin also acknowledged Jaiswal’s seamless transition to Test cricket and said that he’s enjoying the young lad’s batting.
“He (Jaiswal) had a great time in the IPL, had a wonderful start in first-class cricket. I am quite enjoying it. I am seeing Rishabh Pant there. His fearless cricket is serving him well. Yashaswi has not put a foot wrong, he has taken to Test cricket like a fish to water,” said Ashwin following the conclusion of Day 1.
