“Ponting and Karthik have both expressed that this young man has the ability to perform,” Nasser Hussain enthusiastically praises the emerging Indian talent.

Labeling Yashasvi Jaiswal as an all-format opener for the Indian cricket team might be a premature move at this juncture. However, the southpaw has left a significant impression during his debut international series against the West Indies, thereby sowing the seed of consideration within the selectors’ realm. With endorsements from luminaries such as Ricky Ponting and former captains like Nasser Hussain, the resonance of this choice amplifies manifold.

Jaiswal’s induction into the Indian squad stems from a remarkable domestic season. Notably, he became the inaugural cricketer to achieve both a double century and a century in the Irani Cup. Moreover, his commendable performance in IPL 2023 added to his credentials, as he amassed 625 runs across 14 matches, flaunting a strike rate of 163.61.

Being a left-handed batsman turned into an advantageous point for Jaiswal, which culminated in his inaugural call-up to both the Test and T20I squads for the West Indies tour. While his inclusion in the ODIs could have been anticipated, it was rationalized by his non-inclusion in the World Cup contention, prompting the selectors to allocate more playing time understandably to those in the running.

Following India’s disappointing performance in the World Test Championship against Australia, vacancies in the Test squad were inevitable. A parallel narrative emerged in the T20I lineup, given India’s intention to explore multiple emerging talents before the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Jaiswal grasped this opportunity and showcased remarkable prowess in both formats. In his maiden Test appearance in Dominica, he unleashed a monumental 171, thereby securing the record for the highest score by a debutant in the West Indies. He continued this stellar performance with rapid-fire innings of 57 and 38 in the second Test held in Port of Spain.

In the domain of T20Is, his turn arrived with some delay, given India’s preference for the opening duo comprising Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill. Jaiswal’s induction into the T20I team occurred during the third match held in Guyana. Regrettably, this appearance failed to replicate the success of his inaugural Test. Disappointingly, the 21-year-old was dismissed for a mere 1 run. However, those familiar with Jaiswal’s T20 batting prowess were confident that his breakthrough was imminent.

The anticipation didn’t stretch for too long. Jaiswal promptly demonstrated his mettle, smashing an explosive 84 not out from 51 deliveries during the fourth T20I, securing the coveted Player of the Match accolade. His partnership of 165 runs alongside Shubman Gill set a new benchmark as the highest opening stand for India in T20Is.

Yashasvi Jaiswal gains the approval of Ponting and Karthik

Nasser Hussain, the former captain of England, much like several others, found himself impressed by Jaiswal’s abilities. Hussain engaged in a conversation regarding Jaiswal with Ricky Ponting, the coach of Delhi Capitals, and Dinesh Karthik, an integral member of the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Both Ponting and Karthik offered commendatory remarks concerning Jaiswal, who showcased his skills while representing the Rajasthan Royals.

“Based on my observations… His (Jaiswal’s) initial performance has been exceptional. When you converse with individuals who have witnessed his play in the IPL, and once again, I’ve had interactions with Ricky (Ponting), and Dinesh (Karthik) also shared his insights, they all seem to concur that this young talent possesses substantial potential,” Nasser Hussain expressed during the ICC Review.

The former right-handed batsman went on to commend Jaiswal’s robust technique, coupled with a positive attitude that reflects the strength of India’s domestic cricket framework.

“He seems to possess the required technique and displays a positive mindset. Similar to most emerging Indian players, especially batsmen, many of them make an impactful entrance and attain immediate success. This phenomenon signifies the robustness of first-class cricket; it highlights the fact that not only the IPL is fostering talent,” he further elaborated.