Yashasvi Jaiswal has made an impressive mark on his maiden tour to Australia, becoming just the third Indian cricketer to score a century on debut in the country during the opening Test of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
His remarkable knock of 100 runs in the 61st over of India’s innings was a blend of solid technique and aggressive intent, as he struck eight boundaries and three sixes. This century has not only secured his place in the record books but also highlighted his growing stature in international cricket.
Jaiswal’s achievement places him alongside two legendary Indian cricketers—M. L. Jaisimha (1967-68) and Sunil Gavaskar (1977-78)—as one of the few to score a century on their first tour of Australia. The young opener has also set a new benchmark for scoring Test centuries before the age of 23, becoming the Indian batter with the most centuries in a calendar year before turning 23. With three centuries in 2024 and three more matches to go, Jaiswal could even break records held by players like Sunil Gavaskar, who scored four centuries before 23, and Vinod Kambli, who also managed four in the early years of his career.
Furthermore, Jaiswal now holds the record for the most Test sixes in a calendar year, having surpassed Brendon McCullum’s previous record of 33 sixes in a year. His 34 sixes in 2024 is a testament to his aggressive style and ability to dominate bowling attacks, and it’s a feat that adds another feather to his growing list of accomplishments.
The 22-year-old’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, though. On his debut in the series, Jaiswal struggled early, getting out to Mitchell Starc in his first innings after attempting a loose shot. However, he recovered admirably in his second innings, displaying a calm temperament and maturity to register his maiden century in Australia. His ability to adapt and rise above early setbacks speaks volumes about his mental strength and maturity at such a young age.
Jaiswal’s stunning century and record-breaking feats underline the bright future he holds for Indian cricket, and his performance in this series is sure to be watched closely by fans and pundits alike as he continues to make his mark on the global stage.
