Becoming a three-format player remains a rare feat
In an era where formats require contrasting skills, consistently excelling in Tests, ODIs and T20Is is not easy. The depth of Indian cricket means that even highly talented players must outperform their peers season after season to remain relevant. Only a select few have managed to adapt their technique, temperament and mentality to meet the changing demands of red-ball patience, 50-over balance and T20 explosiveness. For young cricketers, the path to becoming indispensable across formats often depends on delivering standout performances in high-pressure tournaments.
The rise of Yashasvi Jaiswal and the holes in his white-ball journey
Jaiswal is widely regarded as one of India’s top batting prospects and has already established himself as a regular in the Test squad. His calmness, hunger for big scores and ability to put in long hours have impressed selectors and fans alike. However, his exposure to white-ball cricket remains limited, especially in T20Is where competition for opening slots is fierce. While Jaiswal has shown moments of brilliance in limited-overs cricket, he is yet to cement a permanent role, raising questions about his willingness to be seen as a three-format certainty.
India is facing New Zealand in a white-ball series comprising three ODIs followed by five T20Is, starting in Vadodara on Sunday, January 11. While Jaiswal has been included in the ODI squad, his absence from the T20I plans underlines the selectors’ cautious approach and the importance of sustainable impact performances.
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Ex-opener presents the blueprint for Jaiswal to become an all-format star
Addressing the topic on his YouTube channel, former opener Akash Chopra provided a clear roadmap for Jaiswal’s progress. According to the former opener, a blockbuster IPL season could change Jaiswal’s position in white-ball cricket. Chopra emphasized that achieving 400 to 450 runs in a season, while respectable, does not match Jaiswal’s potential or the expectations placed on him.
“Yashasvi, I have a request for you. I want you to have an IPL season of 700 runs. I think it would be like that for you every year. You have seasons of 400 to 450 runs, but that is not good enough. Not for you, not for your standard,” said Chopra.
Chopra urged the southpaw to aim higher, specifically setting the benchmark for a 700-run IPL campaign. Such a season, he argued, would force the hand of the selectors and make it impossible to ignore Jaiswal in all formats. According to Chopra, a dominant IPL not only reflects consistency and adaptability but also demonstrates the match-winning impact required at the international level.
“I need a 700-run season so that you break down the door and get in. That’s what I expect from him. That’s what I want from him. So Yashasvi should really become a three-format player sooner rather than later,” he added.
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