Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal delivered a masterclass in composure and timing on Day 1 of the first Test against England at Headingley, scoring a sublime 101 off 159 balls. Following his fifth Test century—and his third against England—the 23-year-old revealed that his success stems from a straightforward mantra: “Being myself and keeping it simple.”
🏏 A Century of Calm and Clarity
Jaiswal became the first overseas batter to score hundreds in his maiden innings in both Australia and England, and only the fifth Indian to notch a century in his debut Test innings on English soil. Speaking to Sky Sports after stumps, he said:
“I just try to be myself and go out there and enjoy the game. We had very good practice sessions and tried to make it as simple as possible. If there’s a loose ball, I believe we need to go for it—and I really enjoyed it.”
🤝 Partnerships That Set the Tone
- Shared a 91-run opening stand with KL Rahul (42)
- Forged a 129-run third-wicket partnership with captain Shubman Gill, who remained unbeaten on 127
- Helped India post a commanding 359/3 at stumps on Day 1
Jaiswal praised Gill’s leadership and composure, calling his innings “very, very well played.”
🇮🇳 A Special Knock for Team and Country
“It was very special, it meant a lot to me. I just wanted to do something for my team, my country, and for myself after all the work I’ve put in,” Jaiswal added.
With this century, Jaiswal has now scored Test hundreds in India, Australia, and England, further cementing his place as a cornerstone of India’s new-era batting lineup.
Stay tuned for Day 2 updates from Headingley.
