Yashasvi Jaiswal equalled former South Africa captain Graeme Smith's World Record with spellbinding century on Day 1 of the second Test against West Indies on October 10. Jaiswal is rapidly becoming synonymous with reaching new milestones in Test cricket. After missing out on a big score in the first Test in Ahmedabad, the left-handed opening batter was determined not to let another opportunity slip away. On Day 1 of the second Test, he powered his way to his seventh Test century, an achievement that immediately placed him on par with former South Africa captain Graeme Smith.
Yashasvi Jaiswal goes level with Graeme Smith's World Record with 7th Test ton
Jaiswal reached this century, his second against the West Indies, with a single off Khary Pierre in the second session, completing the feat off just 145 balls. His maiden Test century had also come against the same opposition a couple of years earlier on his debut.
With this knock, Jaiswal equaled Graeme Smith's unique record for the most centuries (7) scored by an opening batter at the age of 23. With a couple of matches coming up next month against South Africa at home, Jaiswal has a prime opportunity to surpass Smith and claim this record entirely for himself before he turns 24.
The overall record for the most Test centuries at the age of 23 is held by Don Bradman (12), followed by India's Sachin Tendulkar (11). Only three players in history had scored more Test hundreds before turning 24: Bradman (12), Tendulkar (11), and Garfield Sobers (9). While Javed Miandad, Alastair Cook, and Kane Williamson also had seven centuries at that age, only Smith and Jaiswal achieved all seven of theirs while opening the batting.
Yashasvi Jaiswal's 173 powers India to 318/2 on Day 1
Talking about the match, Jaiswal put on a batting masterclass against a modest West Indies attack, striking a majestic 173 not out to propel the hosts to a commanding 318 for 2 on the opening day of the second and final Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Jaiswal wasn't the only one to shine, Sai Sudharsan cracked a solid 87 to prove his batting might and share the spotlight.
Jaiswal's exceptional innings included 22 fours and marked his fifth score of 150 or more in Test cricket, emphatically showcasing why he is regarded as one of the world's most exciting young batsmen. At the close of play, India captain Shubman Gill was batting on 20. Gill, who won his first toss since taking over as Test captain earlier this year, would undoubtedly be pleased that his batters vindicated his decision to bat first in their quest for a 2-0 series sweep.