Facing Fast Bowlers: Gavaskar Warns Yashasvi Jaiswal on Aggressive Starts
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar recently shared his technical concerns about young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, particularly regarding against high-quality fast bowling and the need for greater patience at the start of Test innings. Speaking to India Today, Gavaskar highlighted Jaiswal’s tendency to open too aggressively—a pattern that might expose him in seam conditions like those in England or South Africa.
Why Gavaskar Raised the Concern
- Jaiswal emerged as one of India’s best batters during the Border–Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, scoring 391 runs across five Tests at an average of 43.44, including a century and two fifties.
- Yet Gavaskar admitted he had initial doubts about Jaiswal performing well in tougher conditions down under, given his previous weaknesses in South Africa, especially against left-arm seamer Nandre Burger, who dismissed him multiple times.
- Jaiswal’s main strength has been learning rapidly: Gavaskar praised his progress—first mistakes used as lessons, and adjustments made between innings.
The Core Issue: Over-Aggression Early in Innings
- Gavaskar flagged that Jaiswal often attacks too early, especially when facing swing and seam early on. At times this makes him vulnerable to edges or quick dismissals.
He suggested Test cricket affords time to settle—and over-aggression in the first phases can backfire. - Gavaskar’s message was clear: “Give yourself some time at the start … no matter how the pitch might be, give yourself a little time … and the bowling becomes easier to face.”
Perspective: Why England & England-Like Conditions Raise Stakes
- England’s seam-friendly pitches—like at Lord’s or The Oval—feature swing early on and consistent bounce.
- If Jaiswal attempts controlled aggression too soon, he risks edging the new ball—especially in the upcoming 5th Test at The Oval.
- Gavaskar’s advice anticipates those dangers early in the England tour.
Fielding & Focus: More Than Technique Alone
- Beyond batting, Gavaskar also expressed concern over Jaiswal’s fielding lapses—particularly in the Leeds Test, where he dropped multiple catches, undermining India’s bowling momentum.
- While Jaiswal displayed flashes of brilliance, Gavaskar emphasized consistency across skill sets—not just batting—is critical at Test level.
Historical Context: Learning from Early Struggles
- During India’s tour of South Africa (2023–24), Jaiswal struggled against several left-arm seamers: he was dismissed multiple times by Burger and others early, indicating a vulnerability.
- Yet in Australia, he adjusted. Gavaskar noted shifts in technique—straightening his bat, adopting a slightly deeper crease, and cleaning his footwork strategies against swing.
Why It Matters Now: India vs England at The Oval
- As India prepares for the 5th Test in England, Jaiswal’s early approach could make or break his outing and India’s series outcome.
- Gavaskar’s input matters—he launched his career with technical perfection. His warning is not criticism, but a nudge toward sustenance under pressure.
Sunil Gavaskar’s concern over Yashasvi Jaiswal’s early aggression in a Test innings is rooted in deeper context: vulnerabilities against left-arm seamers, past ups and downs, and the need for patience in tough conditions. While Jaiswal’s ability to learn and adapt has already become his hallmark, Gavaskar’s advice to “give yourself time” should resonate as India heads into one of modern cricket’s most demanding away Tests in England.
For Jaiswal to cement his place among India’s top openers, he must temper flair with caution, and consolidate quickly without panicking. As Test cricket returns to England, adjusting mindset may prove just as vital as adjusting stance.
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