Jaiswal inspired by Dravid and Jaffer ahead of U19 WC semis against Pakistan

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Yashasvi Jaswal

The Indian U-19 cricket team is about to play their third straight final as they look for their fifth title as Under-19 cricketing champions. Their semi-final against Pakistan was, as all India-Pakistan matches are supposed to be, complete with nail-biting moments and India’s eventual win.

Pakistan set the Men in Blue an easy 173 to chase, something that was not going to ruffle Indian feathers. India had a strong opening partnership with Divyaansh Saxena and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who smashed a 176-run partnership, leading India to a ten-wicket win.

Yashasvi Jaiswal, the star of the match who led India to victory by smashing a century, spoke about how he prepared for his role as an opener through expert guidance by coach Wasim Jaffer and watching a video of Rahul Dravid’s match.

In an interview with Indian Express, Jaiswal stated “Paras Mhambrey sir ensured that everyone took this as any other game. We watched a short video from Rahul (Dravid) sir who motivated us and his words helped us a lot. He said, ‘remember that cricket is played in those 22 yards. Just take it like any other game and keep your focus.’”

Jaiswal spoke about the atmosphere of the game, stating “This was the first time I experienced what an India versus Pakistan game means. The atmosphere was amazing, people chanting and screaming ‘India, India’. It was a totally different experience. Twice during the tournament, I got out after being set, so I told myself that today I will play over by over. (Divyaansh) Saxena was batting well at other end and it helped ease the pressure off me.”

Lastly, he also added the advice given to him by Wasim Jaffer. “I played each ball on merit. I had spoken to coaches here along with captain Priyam Garg and Wasim (Jaffer) Bhai. They all said when I feel under pressure, just play out the next few overs. Maiden jaye toh bhi chalega (even if it is a maiden it is fine). Drink water, take singles. If you watched me batting, you will see that between 50 to 60 I took only singles. And the moment I felt ab confidence aagaya hai (I am confident now), I played my shots.”