Rajasthan Royals’ young star Yashasvi Jaiswal has been enduring a rough patch in the first half of IPL 2024, failing to live up to the expectations set by his incredible outing in the Test series against England, where he scored over 700 runs across five matches. However, despite his struggles, former India opener Virender Sehwag believes that Jaiswal should be assured of his spot in the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.
Jaiswal is among the contenders for the second opening spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad, but he faces competition from the likes of Shubman Gill and even Virat Kohli. Despite the pressure of comparisons and the slow start to the season, Sehwag believes that Jaiswal has the potential to succeed at the highest level.
“I don’t believe in comparisons,” Sehwag said. “When I was compared, I made some changes in stance and how I played, so people stop saying that I look or bat like Tendulkar. The tag of comparison comes with immense pressure. I have high hopes for this boy. When you come from a small city, you know you have to put in the hard work otherwise you might have to go back. He will come back to form soon. I believe his ticket and visa for the World Cup is confirmed.”
Jaiswal’s return to form is a boost for the Rajasthan Royals, who are comfortably at the top of the IPL 2024 table with seven wins in eight matches. With Jos Buttler, Riyan Parag, and captain Sanju Samson all in great run-scoring form, the Royals have a potent batting force that will be difficult to beat in the playoffs.