IPL 2023: I want to be in the middle when there is pressure – Yashasvi Jaiswal after match-winning knock against CSK

Rajasthan Royals opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has revealed that he thrives in pressure situations after playing a match-winning knock against Chennai Super Kings at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Thursday.

The left-hander timed the ball to perfection against CSK and played an aggressive role in the opening alliance with Jos Buttler. Out of the 64 runs scored by RR openers in the PowerPlay overs, 40 came off Jaiswal’s blade.

Jaiswal went on to score a fantastic knock of 77 runs from only 43 balls with the help of eight fours and four sixes. The southpaw added 86 runs for the opening partnership with Buttler, in which he did the bulk of the scoring.

Jaiswal was awarded Player of the Match for his superb knock. He said in the post-match presentation, “I enjoyed both (on which POTM award he liked better). I was trying to hit the ball but I was aware which side the wind was blowing, but I was also clear in the mind that I have to go and play good cricketing shots. It is not about just this season, I have been putting in the effort with the team management and I keep speaking to senior players like Dhoni sir and Virat bhai. I enjoy pressure and want to be there when there is pressure. I was only thinking of keeping my strike rate high and I knew we need 200 to defend on this surface.”

On the other hand, Adam Zampa, who replaced Trent Boult in the final XI, delivered with the ball for RR. The Australian leg-spinner scalped three wickets as he accounted for Ruturaj Gaikwad, Devon Conway, and Moeen Ali and conceded only 22 runs in his three overs.

Zampa said after the game, “Great. We have been under the pump the last couple of days, boys put up an amazing total on a pretty tricky pitch. To get a couple of wickets was a nice feeling. I watched Theekshana, a little bit of extra pace and a little bit shorter than usual, hopefully, the ball skids on a bit and does its job. Young players, both great to watch [on Jaiswal and Jurel]. We have seen them do what they did throughout the competition. I have been playing cricket for a long time, mentally ready and prepared for whoever you are playing against. Train a little bit and enjoy the poolside.”

Rajasthan Royals will next take on Mumbai Indians in the 42nd match of the ongoing IPL 2023 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Sunday.