Yashasvi Jaiswal creates history, breaks Shikhar Dhawan’s ODI record
A Record-Breaking Performance in Chennai
Yashasvi Jaiswal could not have asked for a more emphatic comeback to the Indian ODI team. After spending a period on the sidelines, the young opening batsman returned to the playing XI against Afghanistan with a point to prove. He did exactly that, delivering a scintillating century at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai that left spectators and experts alike in awe.
Yashasvi Jaiswal. (Credits: BCCI/X.com)
This innings was far more than just another milestone; it was a powerful reminder of why Jaiswal is considered one of India’s most exciting young prospects. Most significantly, his performance earned him a permanent place in the prestigious annals of Indian cricket history.
The Milestone: Fastest to Two Centuries
Yashasvi Jaiswal etched his name into the record books by becoming the fastest Indian cricketer to score two ODI centuries. He reached this monumental milestone in just six innings, officially surpassing the record held by Shikhar Dhawan, who had achieved the feat in seven innings back in 2013. The achievement highlights the incredible efficiency and aggressive intent Jaiswal brings to the crease.
Fewest innings to score two ODI centuries for India:
- 6 – Yashasvi Jaiswal
- 7 – Shikhar Dhawan
- 9 – Kedar Jadhav
- 17 – Virat Kohli
- 18 – Shubman Gill
Overcoming Selection Pressure
Jaiswal’s journey back to the side has not been easy. Despite scoring a century against South Africa last year, he found himself excluded from the ODI setup. With senior stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and rising star Shubman Gill firmly established as the primary opening pair, opportunities were scarce. Furthermore, with the presence of Ishan Kishan, the competition for the top-order spots reached a level of intensity that would have deterred a lesser player.
However, rather than succumbing to the weight of selection pressure, Jaiswal allowed his bat to do the talking. From the very first over, he displayed a positive mindset, showcasing his natural, attacking style of play without ever appearing to take unnecessary risks. He dominated the proceedings early on, bringing up his half-century in just 38 balls and ensuring that the Afghan bowling attack could never find a rhythm.
A Masterclass in Partnership
The synergy between Jaiswal and captain Rohit Sharma was a highlight of the match. Together, the opening pair stitched a commanding 170-run partnership for the first wicket, effectively taking the game away from Afghanistan. While Rohit anchored the innings with a composed 79, Jaiswal maintained a relentless pace, consistently finding boundaries and rotating the strike with clinical precision.
Jaiswal reached his century in just 83 balls. He concluded the chase in emphatic fashion, dismantling Mohammad Nabi’s bowling with two massive sixes and a boundary, ultimately leading India to a comprehensive 3-0 series whitewash against Afghanistan. This performance serves as a bold statement that Jaiswal is ready to occupy a permanent role in India’s long-term ODI plans, proving that he possesses the temperament to excel at the highest level of international cricket.
