R Ashwin's candid evaluation of Yashasvi Jaiswal stepping into KL Rahul's India Test role: 'He is not as innocent as he seems'

Yashasvi Jaiswal is being hailed as a rising star in Indian cricket, and his Test career has taken off to a remarkable start. In just a year, the talented left-handed batsman has solidified his position in the Test team with his consistently strong performances in every series. His impressive debut innings of 171 runs against West Indies was just the beginning of his success. However, it was during the 2024 England Test series that Jaiswal truly made a name for himself, setting records with his outstanding performances. Throughout the five Tests, he amassed a remarkable total of 712 runs, propelling him into the top 10 of the ICC rankings. Jaiswal's incredible form and skill have marked him as a player to watch in the world of cricket.

Veteran India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who has witnessed Jaiswal's growth from close quarters - IPL to the Indian team, shared his opinion on the young opening batter.

"Yashasvi Jaiswal is not an innocent guy. He will keep on looking. I am telling you, he is not a lazy person. He is a small boy. He will do a lot of work. Leave him. We will take care of him another day," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

The 38-year-old also praised Jaiswal's impressive fifty in the first innings of the Chennai Test against Bangladesh.

"Even Jaiswal played well in the first innings. When we were in trouble, a 50 partnership came about. It was a crucial partnership. He is easily the most improved slip fielder. There is no doubt," he added.

Jaiswal also impressed many with his fielding as he grabbed some crucial catches, including a stunning low catch at the slip of Zakir Hasan in second innings during the Chennai Test.

The 22-year-old has also impressed Ashwin with his work in the slip, as the senior spinner feels that Jaiswal took no time to replace KL Rahul in the second slip.

"KL Rahul is an amazing fielder in second slip. And he (Jaiswal) was able to replace him in the second slip. So, according to me, they worked very hard," he added.

Ashwin credited India fielding coach T Dilip for working hard with Jaiswal, who also volunteered to work on his close-in catching.

“The close-in catching, in places like short-leg, is a very difficult thing. You don't get good fielders like this. Jaiswal himself volunteers and stands up. He also does head-to-head work. So, all in all, we didn't get to see Dilip Sir's name not getting mentioned more prominently,” said Ashwin.