The Indian cricket team secured a commanding 2-1 series victory over South Africa in the three-match One Day International series. This triumph was particularly significant, highlighted by a dominant performance in the decisive third encounter where young opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal notched his maiden ODI century, guiding India to a comprehensive win. Played at the picturesque Visakhapatnam stadium, the Indian side chased down a target of 271 runs with remarkable ease, losing just one wicket in 39. 5 overs, a testament to their batting prowess and depth.
Rohit Sharma's Humorous Observation
Yashasvi Jaiswal's unbeaten knock of 116 runs in the third ODI was a standout performance, marking his first century in the 50-over format. This innings wasn't merely a personal milestone but also a crucial factor in India's series-clinching victory. Jaiswal displayed a perfect blend of composure and aggression, leaving the South African bowlers with few answers. His batting provided a solid foundation for the Indian chase, putting the team in a comfortable position from the outset, while this century firmly established Jaiswal's talent and his ability to perform under pressure on a significant stage.
Following the match, a video surfaced featuring Indian captain Rohit Sharma humorously commenting on Yashasvi Jaiswal's visible nervousness as he neared his century, while in the video, posted by the BCCI on Instagram, Rohit Sharma recounted how Jaiswal was playing aggressively after reaching his fifty, but as he approached the 75-run mark, the prospect of a century became apparent, leading to a touch of anxiety. Rohit remarked, "After fifty, he was playing fast until 70, then as soon as he reached 75, he thought, 'Oh brother, 100 is visible. '" Jaiswal, standing alongside, confirmed Rohit's observation, adding that Rohit had encouraged him to play freely after reaching fifty. This light-hearted exchange offered a glimpse into the camaraderie and relaxed atmosphere within the Indian dressing room.
Dominant Opening Partnership
When the Indian team began their chase of 271 runs in the third ODI, the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal provided a spectacular start. They forged a formidable 155-run partnership for the first wicket,. Effectively taking South Africa out of the contest early on. Rohit Sharma himself contributed a brilliant 75 runs, showcasing his class and experience. This partnership was instrumental not only in the successful chase but also in instilling confidence in the young Jaiswal to convert his start into a big score. Their collaboration underscored the strength and depth of the Indian batting lineup.
Jaiswal Joins Elite All-Format Century Club
Yashasvi Jaiswal received an opportunity in the playing XI for this ODI series due to Shubman Gill's absence from the squad. While he couldn't make a significant impact in the initial two matches, he emphatically justified his selection in the crucial third game. With this century, Jaiswal has now entered an exclusive club of Indian cricketers, while he has become the sixth Indian player to score centuries across all three formats of the game – Test, One Day International, and Twenty20 International. Prior to him, Suresh Raina, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul had achieved this remarkable feat, while this accomplishment highlights Jaiswal's versatility and adaptability across formats, marking him as a bright prospect for the future of Indian cricket. His achievement will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for aspiring young cricketers.
