Yashasvi Jaiswal: From Tree-climbing IPL Spectator to Test Debut Centurion

Jaiswal’s Test cricket aspirations turned into a reality, making his dreams even more fulfilling.

Yashasvi Jaiswal of India jubilantly celebrates his century against West Indies on the second day of their inaugural cricket Test match at Windsor Park in Roseau, Dominica, on Thursday, July 13, 2023. (AP Photo/Ricardo Mazalan).

Executing a half-paddle sweep towards fine-leg, Yashasvi Jaiswal swiftly glanced at his partner Rohit Sharma before dashing to the opposite end, taking long and hurried strides to secure the most pivotal run of his career. As he completed the run, an exhilarated Jaiswal leaped in the air, removing his helmet and waving his bat in acknowledgment of his teammates and the sparse crowd.

With his gaze fixed upon the heavens, he savored the awe-inspiring moment, as it marked the pinnacle of his career—a Test century on his debut, a distinction held by only 17 Indian cricketers, including legends like Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag, and Gundappa Viswanth.

The announcement of his debut had been made a few days prior, yet doubts lingered regarding his ability to transfer the talent displayed in domestic cricket to the highest level, questioning both his technique and temperament. Those who had witnessed his explosive performances in the IPL might have mistakenly labeled him as a carefree player.

However, he possesses a versatile game, employing adaptable methods suitable for any format. His impressive first-class average of 80.61 serves as a testament to his comfort in red-ball cricket. His century was constructed in a classical manner, methodically building his innings by accumulating runs in a steady fashion, prioritizing timing and not chasing big shots. Notably, 39 out of the 100 runs were scored through singles, with an additional four twos.

At no point did he display impatience or even give the impression that he might. Instead, Jaiswal, the Test batsman, stood in stark contrast to Jaiswal, the IPL batsman. In the previous edition, he swiftly achieved a fifty in a mere 13 balls, whereas in this Test match, it took him 17 balls to open his account.

Yet, he exhibited no signs of nervousness or being overwhelmed throughout the innings. From the very beginning, he exuded a composed authority, a profound sense of belonging, as if the grand stage was tailored specifically for him.

As the significance of the moment settled in, Yashasvi Jaiswal might have witnessed his entire career unfolding before his eyes. Nestled within the congested lanes of suburban Santacruz, where every available space is occupied by concrete structures, lies a modest two-bedroom apartment on the sixth floor, which serves as Jaiswal’s residence.

This rented abode provides a far more comfortable living arrangement than one of his earlier homes in Mumbai—a tent intended for groundsmen at Azad Maidan. However, neither his surroundings nor the humble beginnings could ever define India’s emerging batting prodigy or confine the scope of his aspirations.

Before embarking on his journey to the Caribbean, Yashasvi Jaiswal expressed to The Indian Express, “This is a moment I have dreamt of throughout my entire life.” There were nights when he would lie in bed, visualizing himself donning the white attire of the Indian cricket team, raising both hands in acknowledgment of the resounding applause from the crowd.

Despite the changing times, Jaiswal remains unchanged. Having returned from England just a day ago, he is now spending his special day with his family. Despite his remarkable ascent, Jaiswal remains down-to-earth. He continues to drive the same second-hand car he purchased several years ago. He is even planning to go for a run with his brother, suggesting they take an autorickshaw due to Mumbai’s persistent traffic and parking issues.

Jaiswal’s journey has been truly inspiring, often narrated as a tale of perseverance and triumph whenever he excels in domestic cricket. His story begins with humble beginnings, from residing in a tent and selling panipuri, to eventually representing India on the cricket field. The turning point came when he found a coach named Jwala Singh, and his path started to align.

He fondly recalls a story from his early days, when he and his roommate, both groundsmen, would climb a tree at Azad Maidan to catch glimpses of IPL matches on a large screen at Mumbai’s Press Club. Jaiswal vividly remembers telling his roommate, with conviction, that one day he would be playing at the Wankhede Stadium under the gleaming floodlights.

That day arrived when he scored a century against the Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium this season, and it triggered a flood of memories from those past moments.

Throughout his life, the Mumbai opener yearned for a single opportunity to showcase his talent. During his formative years, he would often seek permission to practice in the nearby nets of Azad Maidan, only to be shooed away with discouraging remarks like, “Go away, don’t play here.”

As he matured, he wished for that one chance. During a National Cricket Academy (NCA) under-19 camp a few years ago, he found himself batting lower down the order, which meant fewer opportunities to face deliveries. Determined to prove himself, Jaiswal approached West Zone coach Surendra Bhave, pleading for a chance to bat higher up the order. His request was granted, and Jaiswal seized the opportunity by scoring a remarkable century.