India's young batting star Yashasvi Jaiswal has found his form at the right time ahead of the upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand. After a disappointing run of performances on the tour, the left-handed batter delivered a Impressive unbeaten knock of 155 runs on Day 4 of the second unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A in Christchurch. Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 155 off 162 balls, striking at 95.67. His impressive innings included 15 fours and five sixes, helping India A take control of the match after conceding a 78-run first-innings lead. The match eventually ended in a draw.
The century was particularly important for Jaiswal, who had struggled with the bat in recent months. Since scoring an ODI century against Afghanistan in June, he had managed just 160 runs in eight innings, including two ducks. His poor run continued during the ongoing tour, with scores of 17, 5 and 0 in his previous three innings.
India A resumed Day 4 at 32/0, still trailing by 46 runs, with Jaiswal unbeaten on 20 overnight. The visitors had earlier been put under pressure after New Zealand A posted 424 in their first innings, securing a 78-run lead. Matthew Boyle's century and Dean Foxcroft's 93 were the major contributions to New Zealand A's total. For India A, Mukesh Kumar was the standout bowler, claiming five wickets for 87 runs, while Mohammed Siraj picked up four wickets for 118 runs. Washington Sundar took the remaining wicket.
Jaiswal then led India's response with an aggressive and composed batting display. His unbeaten 155 not only helped India A recover from the first-innings deficit but also provided a much-needed confidence boost ahead of the upcoming Test series.
The match ended in a draw after both teams shook hands following Yash Rathod's century, which came moments after Tea on Day 4.
Jaiswal's impressive comeback will be encouraging news for the Indian team management. With the two-Test series against New Zealand approaching, his return to form could prove important for India's batting line-up.