Jaiswal swears by disciplined approach and attention to fitness

Rajasthan Royals’ Yashasvi Jaiswal, who scored the fastest IPL half-century and just missed out on a hundred, says he is ready for more quick runs.

Dashing opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, whose unbeaten 47-ball 98 enabled Rajasthan Royals thrash Kolkata Knight Riders by nine wickets, said a disciplined approach, including attention to fitness, made him a better player.

The 21-year-old, who scored the fastest Indian Premier League half-century, off just 13 deliveries, gave priority to his preparation and being in the zone.

“It’s about my preparation, how focused and disciplined I am — especially on my fitness. After fielding for 20 overs, you have to open the innings with such intensity. Overall, I do what I can outside cricket to keep myself fit and mentally strong. I get confidence from that,” said Jaiswal at the post-match press conference.

“My thumb rule is (priority to) my routine and the process. I try my best to keep my focus on that and keep learning every match. It’s very important to take my game forward. I have legendary players around me. Whenever I get a chance, I speak to M.S. (Dhoni) bhai, Virat (Kohli) bhai, Rohit (Sharma) bhai, Jos (Buttler) bhai and Sanju (Samson) bhai about how to keep my mind in control, what to think. I always try to learn and improve.

“I talk a lot with (RR director of cricket) Zubin (Bharucha) Sir about my batting. We have a good academy in Talegaon. My main preparation happens there,” said Jaiswal, who has amassed 575 runs and is one run behind Orange Cap holder Faf du Plessis.

Jaiswal was delighted at having scored the fastest IPL fifty and did not regret missing out on an opportunity to get another hundred. The young left-hander, who plundered 26 off the first over bowled by Nitish Rana, said he was ready to get some quick runs.

KKR top-scorer Venkatesh Iyer also lauded Jaiswal. “It’s the variety of shots he played, effective and orthodox. He played just one reverse hit. He is a man in form, an amazing batter,” said Venkatesh, admitting the ploy to open the bowling with Rana, unfortunately, did not work for KKR.