Test cricket is the epitome of the sport for me: Yashasvi Jaiswal

Yashasvi Jaiswal made his Test debut against West Indies on July 12 in Dominica. Indian captain Rohit Sharma had previously expressed the team's search for a left-handed opener and it seems that their quest has finally reaching its conclusion. Meanwhile, India's newest member Jaiswal has said that Test cricket is the real and purest form of cricket and to represent India in Test cricket was his ultimate dream.

Jaiswal's journey to the national team has been nothing short of extraordinary. Having played 15 first-class matches, Jaiswal boasts an outstanding average of over 80, including an impressive tally of nine centuries and a highest score of 265. After leaving a strong impression in domestic cricket, he carried his remarkable form into the IPL, where he set numerous records during the 2023 season.

Representing the Rajasthan Royals, Jaiswal accumulated an impressive total of 625 runs in 14 matches with an average of 48.08 and a strike rate of 163.61, which includes one century and five half-centuries as well. He currently holds the prestigious record for the fastest fifty in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). He achieved this remarkable feat by reaching fifty runs in a mere 13 balls in the recently concluded season. 

"I was overjoyed. Test cricket is the epitome of the sport for me. Since my early days, playing Tests for India has been my aspiration. When I heard that I would be joining the Indian team, it was a moment of immense pleasure. Being a part of a Test team was always my ambition, alongside the T20I side," said Jaiswal, speaking on the BCCI's podcast with Ruturaj Gaikwad.

These exceptional performances have rightfully earned him the opportunity to represent India in Test cricket. Indian captain, Rohit Sharma had confirmed that Jaiswal will make his Test debut on July 12 against West Indies in Dominica. He hoped that the young left-handed prodigy will end the team's long-time search for a left-handed opener and he will make the most of this opportunity.

The journey of this young talent, from the streets of Mumbai to the international stage representing India, is a testament to his hard work and dedication.