Sydney: Young Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal delivered a scintillating performance in the second innings of the fifth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, smashing four consecutive boundaries off Australian pacer Mitchell Starc in the opening over. This remarkable display of aggression at the Sydney Cricket Ground left Starc reeling and etched Jaiswal’s name in the record books.

Jaiswal’s Explosive Start

In a jaw-dropping start, Jaiswal dismantled Starc’s rhythm, scoring 16 runs off the first over—setting a record for the most runs by an Indian batter in the opening over of a Test innings.

• Ball 1: Jaiswal cut a short and wide delivery over the slip cordon for a boundary.
• Ball 2 & 3: The young batter played back-to-back cut shots, dispatching them to the fence.
• Ball 4: Starc overcompensated with a full delivery wide of off-stump, and Jaiswal drove it elegantly through extra cover for the fourth boundary.

The over marked Starc’s most expensive opening in a Test match on home soil, a historic low for the seasoned pacer.

Australia’s Efforts on Day 2

Earlier in the match, debutant Beau Webster shone for Australia with a resilient maiden Test fifty. Webster scored 57 off 105 balls, including five boundaries, showcasing grit as Australia managed 181 runs in 51 overs. However, they trailed India by four runs in the first innings.

India Eyes a Strong Position

Jaiswal’s fiery start has put India on the front foot as they aim to capitalize on the slender first-innings lead. With the young opener in commanding form, the visitors are well-positioned to take control of the Test match.

A Record to Remember

Jaiswal’s fearless approach against one of the world’s premier pacers is a testament to his growing stature in international cricket. His 16-run over against Starc will be remembered as a moment of audacious brilliance in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Cricket fans can’t wait to see what Jaiswal has in store as India builds its lead in the second innings.