NEW DELHI: Yashasvi Jaiswal lit up the Sydney Cricket Ground during the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, setting the record for the most runs scored by an Indian batter off the opening over of a Test innings. The 23-year-old opener began the second innings with explosive intent, securing 16 runs off Mitchell Starc's first over.
Jaiswal's electric performance came on Saturday, showcasing his aggressive style against the veteran Australian pacer. Starc delivered the first ball as a dot, but Jaiswal quickly turned the momentum. The second delivery was wide and short, which Jaiswal skillfully sent over the slip cordon for four runs. He continued his assault, hitting three more boundaries off subsequent deliveries, culminating the over with another exquisite drive through extra cover, leaving Starc puzzled. The over ended with 0, 4, 4, 4, 0, 4, providing India with the adrenaline boost they sought.
Thanks to Jaiswal's rapid scoring, he and fellow opener KL Rahul established a solid partnership, adding 42 runs for the first wicket. Sadly, their partnership was cut short when Scott Boland dismissed Rahul for 13 runs, who had faced 20 deliveries and managed to hit two boundaries. Jaiswal, unfortunately, could not extend his impressive start, getting bowled by Boland for 22 runs after hitting four boundaries from 35 balls.
Earlier, India managed to take a slender first-innings lead of four runs after dismissing Australia for 181, having set 185 as their total. The impressive bowling from Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna played a significant role in keeping Australia at bay. This performance came as the Indian team adjusted to the challenging conditions of the Sydney pitch, which has been known to trouble batters.
Jaiswal's record-breaking start is emblematic of his growth as a player throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he has emerged as India's leading run-scorer. With 391 runs across five matches at an average of 43.44 and boasting a high score of 161, Jaiswal has shown significant promise on the international stage.
The rivalry between Jaiswal and Starc, which has simmered throughout the series, added another layer of interest to the match. During the first match in Perth, Jaiswal had taunted Starc during press interactions, claiming, “It's coming too slow.” While Starc did not respond verbally at the time, he eventually found success against Jaiswal's wicket in subsequent matches.
Despite Jaiswal's bold innings, the match's outcome remains uncertain as India observed the conditions of the pitch labeled as seaming and unpredictable. With captain Jasprit Bumrah sidelined for this match, the Indian team understands the necessity of securing at least a 50-run lead to solidify their chances of winning.
Jaiswal's performance not only set new benchmarks but also reignited hope for the Indian contingent. His aggression, flair, and unyielding spirit could potentially pivot the course of the match, allowing India to capitalize on the initial momentum established.
With both teams adjusting to the pressures of the Test format and aiming for supremacy, cricket fans around the world eagerly await the developments as India strives to convert their starts and competitive spirit against Australia.