Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has heaped praise on young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, calling him “already world-class” and predicting that he will return from the Australian tour a significantly improved batter. Shastri believes that Jaiswal’s ability to adapt to the challenging Perth pitch will be crucial, but if he can overcome that hurdle, he will “entertain” and play with freedom.

Ravi Shastri heaps massive praise on Yashasvi Jaiswal

Ravi Shastri’s comments are a testament to Yashasvi Jaiswal’s talent and potential, which have already been on display in his short Test career. The 21-year-old made a dazzling start to his Test career, cementing his spot in the team with a stunning series performance against England earlier this year.

“I think he’ll be a better player when he leaves Australian shores. Already he’s world-class,” Shastri said at a Fox Cricket event.

“You saw what he did against England (and) just the freedom with which he plays.

“I think once he adapts to these conditions — it’s not going to be easy to adjust in Perth with that bounce, no matter how talented you are. You have got to be prepared to do the hard yards.

“But if he can see that phase through, I think he’ll entertain. He will love these pitches. He’s someone who score pretty freely as well.” 

“He’s come up the hard way, so you can see that hunger and passion, not just in his eyes, but when he’s out there in the middle, fielding in the slips. He wants to be involved in the game.” 

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Ravi Shastri on how India can defeat Australia again

Having led India to two series victories in Australia, Shastri knows firsthand that defeating the Aussies on their home turf is no easy feat.

“It’s going to be tough,” Shastri said.

“As I found out on my three tours here as a coach, you have to be at your best. Your A game has to come to the park very early if you want to catch Australia on the wrong foot.

“You don’t want to give an inch. I think that is the only way. There is no other way you can play. You’ve got to, or you’re not going to get an inch.

“You have got to understand very early what to expect from the media as well, because they’ll be behind the Australian team. But if you can get your boys to get out there and play as hard as it gets be ready for some tough cricket and perform, the media will respect you.”

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(With PTI inputs)