IND vs ENG: 'He has the game for it,' Ajinkya Rahane backs Yashasvi Jaiswal to shine on England tour

Rahane Backs Jaiswal to Shine in England Test Series

Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane has voiced his confidence in opener Yashasvi Jaiswal as India prepares for a five-match Test series against England. The series is set to commence at Headingley. Rahane's support comes even after speculation arose regarding a potential rift between the two Mumbai teammates during the previous Ranji Trophy season.

Rahane, who last represented India two years ago, shared his insights on the upcoming series and key players via his YouTube channel.

"Personally, I'm really looking forward to seeing Yashasvi Jaiswal do well because opening the batting in England is really important," Rahane stated. "He has the game for it — he can control one end and also go on the attack when needed. So I'm really looking forward to seeing Jaiswal perform in England."

Reports in April suggested a possible disagreement between Jaiswal and Rahane following Mumbai's loss to Jammu and Kashmir in the Ranji Trophy. Since his Test debut in the West Indies in July 2023, Jaiswal has been India's preferred opening batsman.

Rahane also emphasized the crucial role of the pace bowling attack in the series. "I also want to see Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah do well because, as senior campaigners, they have the responsibility to lead the attack and pick up wickets for the team."

"We all know Bumrah is an excellent bowler and a proven wicket-taker, but I'd like to see him take that extra responsibility and help the team get through challenging situations, because winning a Test series in England is always very special."

India has historically struggled in England, securing only three series victories (1971, 1986, and 2007) since bilateral matches began in 1932.

Shubman Gill will lead the Indian team in this series, and Rahane commented on the young captain's new responsibility. "I think it's going to be a challenging task for Shubman because in Test cricket I always believe you have to be proactive as a captain. I'm sure Shubman will do well, but it will take time because captaining in T20s and ODIs is completely different."

"In the Test format, sometimes you have to stay one or two steps ahead of your opponents, talk to your bowlers, and plan things with them. So, it's going to be a challenging task for him, but I'm sure he will do well as both a skipper and a batter."

Rahane, who captained India to a memorable Test series victory in Australia in 2020-21, believes the current team possesses the potential for success in English conditions.