Subhayan Chakraborty at Newlands in Cape Town
In what turned out to be the shortest Test match of all time, India managed to end the two-Test series against South Africa on level terms, securing their maiden victory at the Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town. Young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, experiencing South African conditions for the first time in Test whites, acknowledged the challenges of the tour and emphasized the learning experience it provided.
“This tour has been a learning experience for me,” he said during a media interaction after the game. “Different environment and in every sense, it has been an enjoyable experience. Learnt about improvements I need to make.”
While Jaiswal’s batting numbers in the series were modest, with scores of 17, 5, 0, and 28, his standout contribution came in the field with sharp slip catching. Despite the challenging conditions that saw the ball moving unpredictably, he showcased his fielding prowess. “The ball comes differently here, and I tried giving my all, but I accept there were challenges,” said Jaiswal of the difficulties he faced while batting. “This experience will keep me in good stead as I am learning and would strive to improve during the next series.”
Acknowledging the positive influence of skipper Rohit Sharma, Jaiswal highlighted the importance of maintaining a positive frame of mind. “Rohit Sharma helps me maintain a positive frame of mind, and we needed to score runs quickly against the new ball,” he said. “I just wanted to give a good start, and that was all there in my mind as we had to win the match.”
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Despite struggling for form, Jaiswal demonstrated his attacking intent in the second innings of the Newlands Test, contributing a quickfire 23-ball 28 to ensure India stayed ahead in the run chase. Looking ahead, recognised the competition in Indian cricket and the importance of consistent performances, especially with the upcoming five-Test series against England.
“There’s no particular style I want to adhere to, and it’s not that I have an attacking game only,” said the 22-year-old Jaiswal. “I can change my game as per the team’s demands. In the last three innings and even in this knock, I had done the same thing. I would bat differently if it’s the first day and differently if it’s the final session and 70 runs needed. I try to change my game as per the team’s needs.”
As India gears up for the upcoming challenges, including a three-T20I series against Afghanistan and the much-anticipated five-Test series against England, Jaiswal remains focused on continuous improvement and contributing effectively to the team’s success.
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