NEW DELHI: Indian youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal openly admitted the challenges he faced during the South Africa series and credited India’s captain, Rohit Sharma, for helping him maintain a positive mindset in the midst of bouncy tracks.
Despite scoring only 50 runs in 4 innings during the series, which ended in a 1-1 draw, Jaiswal’s quickfire 28 off 23 balls played a crucial role in India’s successful chase of 79 in the second Test at Newlands.

“Rohit Sharma helps me maintain a positive frame of mind, and we needed to score runs quickly against the new ball,” said Jaiswal, highlighting Rohit’s influence on his mental approach.

“I just wanted to give a good start, and that was all there in my mind as we had to win the match. In the last 3 innings and even in this knock, I had done the same thing.”
Jaiswal acknowledged the learning experience of the tour, recognizing the challenges posed by the different environment and conditions.

“This tour has been a learning experience for me. I’ve learned about improvements I need to make. The ball comes differently here, and I tried giving my all, but I accept there were challenges. This experience will keep me in good stead as I am learning and would strive to improve during the next series.”
When asked about his batting style in the upcoming Test series against England, starting on January 25 in Hyderabad, Jaiswal emphasized adaptability.
“There’s no particular style I want to adhere to, and it’s not that I have an attacking game only. I can change my game as per the team’s demands. 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.”
The 22-year-old revealed that he receives valuable tips from seniors like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli on adapting his game to different situations. Coach Rahul Dravid has also provided specific technical guidance, emphasizing the importance of batting freely with a smile.
“Rahul sir told me in challenging conditions if you get beaten or get hit and are still batting out there, then you are doing well. How to leave deliveries from length, which deliveries to play,” shared Jaiswal.
The best advice from coach Dravid?
“Basically, he wants me to bat freely and always with a smile.”

(With inputs from PTI)