Yashasvi Jaiswal achieved a remarkable milestone on Day 2 of the Perth Test, surpassing a record held by current India head coach Gautam Gambhir for 16 years. Jaiswal now holds the record for the most Test runs scored by an Indian left-handed batter in a calendar year, overtaking Gambhir’s tally of 1134 runs in 2008.
Jaiswal’s remarkable feat
In 2024, Jaiswal has accumulated 1156 runs in 12 matches at an impressive average of 55.04, including 7 fifties and 2 centuries. His golden run continues to place him among the most dependable batters for India in the Test format.
By comparison, Gambhir achieved his tally in just 8 matches in 2008, averaging an extraordinary 70.87, with 6 fifties and 3 centuries.
Top 5: Most Test runs by an Indian left-hander in a calendar year
| Player | Matches | Innings | Runs | Average | 50s | 100s | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YBK Jaiswal | 12 | 23 | 1156 | 55.04 | 7 | 2 | 2024 |
| G Gambhir | 8 | 16 | 1134 | 70.87 | 6 | 3 | 2008 |
| SC Ganguly | 10 | 19 | 1106 | 61.44 | 4 | 3 | 2007 |
| SC Ganguly | 16 | 25 | 945 | 41.08 | 5 | 2 | 2002 |
| SC Ganguly | 11 | 15 | 848 | 56.53 | 3 | 3 | 1997 |
Jaiswal’s golden 2024
Jaiswal has been the standout batter for India in Tests this year. He began the year with a stellar performance against England, where he racked up over 700 runs, including two double centuries. His consistency and temperament have made him a key player in the Indian Test setup.
Against Australia in the ongoing Perth Test, Jaiswal showcased his adaptability after a disappointing first innings, where he fell for an 8-ball duck. In the second innings, he crafted a well-paced 42 off 88 balls, ensuring India built on their first-innings lead.
Chasing Joe Root
Jaiswal’s exceptional form has also placed him as the second-highest run-scorer in Tests this year, trailing only England’s Joe Root, who has scored 1338 runs. With the series Down Under still in progress, Jaiswal has a golden opportunity to surpass Root and finish 2024 as the leading Test run-scorer.
India’s position in the Perth Test
India took control of the match on Day 2, dismissing Australia for 104, courtesy of Jasprit Bumrah’s magnificent five-wicket haul. Heading into the third day, India’s openers, Jaiswal and KL Rahul, have already put up a century stand, further strengthening the team’s grip on the game.
India will be looking to capitalize on this strong platform and aim for a comprehensive victory, with Jaiswal expected to play a pivotal role.