Ahead of the much-anticipated Test series between England and India, former England captain Joe Root has made a bold statement about India’s young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. Root, speaking to Times of India, expressed admiration for Jaiswal’s rapid rise and suggested that the left-hander could enjoy a breakthrough series even in tough conditions like Australia. His comments reflect growing international recognition of Jaiswal’s talent, following the batter’s impressive performances since his Test debut.

Root acknowledged that predicting how long it takes for a player to prove themselves in Test cricket isn’t simple. “Everyone has a different rate of development,” he said. Using Jaiswal as an example, he said, “It might be that someone like Jaiswal comes in and has an amazing series, like he did against the West Indies, and goes to Australia and scores a hundred.” Jaiswal’s ability to adapt quickly and score runs in unfamiliar conditions has clearly left an impression on Root.

Root further compared the Indian youngster to players like Harry Brook, who took to international cricket almost instantly, and Michael Hussey, who bloomed later in his career. “Some players take a little bit longer, but that doesn’t mean they’re not going to be successful,” he said, hinting that Jaiswal might already be ahead of the curve.

Root Reflects on Kohli and the Challenges of Test Adaptation

Root also offered thoughts on Virat Kohli’s challenges and adaptability in Test cricket, especially when facing top-quality bowling overseas. “If you’re in a five-match Test series and there’s something in your game that doesn’t sit well with you, it can be difficult,” he said, referring to Kohli’s struggles outside the off-stump in Australia. “But Kohli still got 100 in that first Test (in Perth), which India won.”

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Emphasizing the synergy between tactical tweaks and match situations, Root said, With experience and more understanding of your own game, it should be easier.” As India gears up for a leading Series in a demanding red-ball format, Root's take on Jaiswal's potential and Kohli's experience will likely be paramount for India's very lineup.