“Yes, it will be a test for Yashasvi Jaiswal,” says Sunil Gavaskar when discussing the young Indian opener’s challenge in South Africa.

The young Indian phenomenon Yashasvi Jaiswal is preparing for the forthcoming two-match Test series against South Africa, and renowned cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has voiced faith in Jaiswal’s ability to contribute to the series.

Sunil Gavaskar complimented Jaiswal’s technique, pointing out that he can play the ball “very late” and be patient before taking risky shots, all in his typically perceptive way.

Yes, he will put himself to the test. However, I think he has the potential to succeed under these circumstances as well. He plays the ball quite late, keeps his head motionless, and enters the line fairly skillfully, based on what I have observed of him in Test matches. He has no intention of running after the ball. Gavaskar was cited on Star Sports as saying, “He plays it very late; he loves to give himself time in the middle.”

The great cricketer also commended Yashasvi Jaiswal for his skill with the short ball and his daring pull-shot technique. Highlighting the importance of the first 12 overs, particularly while the Kookaburra ball is in action, Gavaskar suggested,

He is a skilled short-ball player who doesn’t hesitate to attempt a pull shot. In my opinion, the first 12 overs of a Kookaburra ball match—which is played in areas like South Africa and Australia—are crucial since the ball does not do anything else. If you are a good batter, no one can get you out after 12 overs.”

With an average of 88.66, Jaiswal, who made his Test debut against the West Indies in July, demonstrated his ability by compiling an astounding 266 runs from two matches. He hit 171 runs in the first Test, which was the highlight of his debut and the third-highest individual score by an Indian batter on their Test debut.

Fans will be interested in seeing how Jaiswal handles the challenging circumstances in South Africa when the first Test between India and South Africa gets underway at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on December 26.