Yashasvi Jaiswal is making Test cricket look effortless. With an impressive record of over 1,900 runs and five centuries in just twenty matches, including three overseas tons in his debut appearances in the Caribbean, Australia, and now England, Yashasvi Jaiswal has quickly established himself as a formidable opener. His ability to perform on different pitches and against various attacks speaks volumes about his talent and adaptability.
While Yashasvi Jaiswal has enjoyed a rapid ascent, Shubman Gill’s journey has been more gradual. At 25, Gill, two years Yashasvi Jaiswal’s senior, had five centuries from 32 games but none outside Asia until his recent captaincy debut. His struggles to convert starts into significant scores, particularly in challenging overseas conditions, had been a point of concern. However, Gill’s recent century on his captaincy debut at Headingley marks a significant turning point, showcasing his resilience and growth.
The first day of the Test against Ben Stokes’ England saw both Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill dominate, spearheading India’s transition in Test cricket. Their combined effort led to a commanding day-one total of 359 for three. Yashasvi Jaiswal, after a brilliant 101, was dismissed in the post-tea session. Gill, however, remained unbeaten on 127, just shy of his highest Test score, becoming only the fifth Indian to score a century on captaincy debut.
Tim Southee, the former New Zealand fast bowler and now a special skills consultant with the English setup, acknowledged the “very good surface” at Headingley. Yet, making the most of such a batting-friendly pitch requires exceptional skill, especially given that the lead-up to the match was more focused on the absence of retired stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli rather than the current squad.
It was under the guidance of Rohit Sharma that Yashasvi Jaiswal truly blossomed as a Test opener. Rohit, with his experience and foresight, recognized Yashasvi Jaiswal’s immense talent but also saw the potential for self-sabotage if success got to his head. Rohit made conscious efforts to ensure his younger opening partner remained grounded, and all indications suggest that his mentorship has paid off handsomely.
Discipline has always been a hallmark of Shubman Gill’s career. Earmarked for greater things since his Under-19 days when India won the junior World Cup in New Zealand in 2018, Gill has steadily risen through the ranks. In contrast, his then-captain, Prithvi Shaw, has faltered due to off-field issues. Gill’s elevation to Test captaincy is a testament not only to his cricketing skills but also to his unwavering temperament and man-management abilities.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Gill’s total domination on day one was evident from the start. Yashasvi Jaiswal and the composed KL Rahul forged a crucial 91-run opening partnership, dispelling early nerves and setting the tone. Rahul was the aggressor, driving elegantly through the covers, while Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his power with rasping cuts and delightful drives.
Gill, much like Rahul, possesses an effortless grace in his batting. While Rahul excels off the front foot, Gill is a master of the back foot, adept at punching the ball through point or executing his characteristic short-arm jab-pull. He embraced captaincy with remarkable ease, starting with aggressive intent, and compensated for Yashasvi Jaiswal’s struggles with cramps.
Gill’s celebration of Yashasvi Jaiswal’s century showcased their camaraderie. Though slightly disappointed by his partner’s dismissal by a brilliant Ben Stokes delivery, Gill swiftly adapted, focusing on solid defense while Rishabh Pant settled in. He then surged ahead, reaching his first non-Asia century with a beautiful cover-drive against Josh Tongue. Not a bad day’s work for a debutant captain!
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