Yashasvi Jaiswal’s remarkable turnaround in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 culminated in a sensational century against Mumbai Indians, propelling him to a coveted spot in India’s T20 World Cup squad as the opening batsman alongside Rohit Sharma. Jaiswal’s impressive performances in Test and T20Is, including scoring 1,000 runs in less than 10 matches and setting several records in the England series, solidified his position ahead of Shubman Gill, who struggled for form this season.
Despite a slow start in the IPL, Jaiswal’s sublime century against Mumbai Indians served as a timely reminder of his batting prowess. The left-handed opener has consistently maintained a high strike rate as an opening batter since 2023, forming a formidable left-right combination with Rohit Sharma at the top of the Indian batting order.
Jaiswal’s breakout season in Test and T20Is showcased his exceptional talent. He smashed centuries for India in both formats, establishing himself as a frontrunner to open the innings with Rohit Sharma across formats. Gill, on the other hand, endured a challenging season, particularly in the longest format.
Prior to the World Cup, Jaiswal opened the Indian innings with Rohit in India’s home T20 series against Afghanistan. He also enjoyed a prolific run-scoring series against England in the lead-up to the IPL 2024.
Jaiswal’s impressive record-breaking performance in the England series included completing 1,000 runs in less than 10 matches, notching up two double centuries, and becoming the second Indian to score more than 700 runs in a Test series. He also holds the record for the most sixes (26) in a Test series and scored 260 more runs than Gill in the England series.
With Virat Kohli expected to bat at number three, Gill had to make way for Jaiswal, who will open for India at the grandest stage later this year. Jaiswal’s exceptional performances have earned him the trust of the selectors, and he will be eager to make a significant contribution to India’s T20 World Cup campaign.
