The usually calm atmosphere of the Indian dressing room reportedly saw a spike in tension during the recent Test match, as Rishabh Pant was seen expressing his frustration towards young Yashasvi Jaiswal's perceived lack of alertness while fielding at short-leg. Sources indicate that Pant, known for his fiery demeanor behind the stumps, felt Jaiswal's lax approach was unacceptable in a crucial fielding position where concentration and quick reflexes are paramount.
"Daal jaldi," Pant was heard saying to Kuldeep Yadav when the timer ran out.
The incident occurred during a critical phase of the game, with the opposition building a substantial partnership. Short-leg is a high-pressure position, demanding sharp anticipation and the bravery to withstand the proximity to the bat. Pant's outburst, while perhaps stemming from a place of wanting to win, reportedly left Jaiswal visibly shaken.
Adding another layer to the situation, veteran Cheteshwar Pujara, known for his composed presence, was observed having a quiet word with Jaiswal later in the day. According to sources close to the team, Pujara's advice carried echoes of his experiences with another dynamic left-handed opener, Shikhar Dhawan.
"Pujara was reminding Jaiswal about the need to maintain focus and energy, even when the game seems to be drifting," the source revealed. "He drew parallels to how Dhawan, despite his natural exuberance, always made sure to switch on when fielding in close positions."
While Dhawan's aggressive batting style is well-documented, his commitment in the field, especially in his younger days, was often understated. Pujara, having shared the dressing room with Dhawan for years, understands the importance of instilling a sense of responsibility in young players, regardless of their batting prowess.
Jaiswal, who has shown tremendous promise with the bat, particularly with a brilliant 87 in the second test, needs to understand that contributing to the team extends beyond scoring runs. His fielding, especially in a position as vital as short-leg, is an area where improvement is expected. Some observers have noted a potential flaw in Jaiswal's batting, suggesting bowlers should be patient and bowl a consistent line outside off-stump, waiting for him to make a mistake.
The incident serves as a reminder of the intense pressure and scrutiny that come with representing India on the international stage. While Pant's reaction might have been perceived as harsh by some, it underscores the high standards expected within the team. The senior players, including Pujara, play a crucial role in guiding and mentoring the youngsters, ensuring they understand the importance of every aspect of the game. It remains to be seen how Jaiswal internalizes these lessons and responds in the upcoming matches. The team management will be hoping that this incident serves as a learning experience, molding him into a more complete and consistent cricketer.
