Indian national cricket team opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal is actively broadening his on-field skillset by training behind the stumps ahead of upcoming international commitments. After displaying remarkable batting form throughout 2026, Jaiswal is utilizing the domestic circuit to fine-tune his match readiness. The national side is scheduled to tour New Zealand for a rigorous two-match Test series, where challenging swing conditions will test the opener's temperament and technique. To prepare for the overseas assignment, Jaiswal will feature for Mumbai in the opening round of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy.
Siddhesh Lad Details Training Focus
Ahead of the fixture, Mumbai Ranji team captain Siddhesh Lad shared insights into Jaiswal's preparatory routines and on-field experiments. Lad indicated that the left-hander has taken up wicketkeeping drills alongside his regular batting preparations. Ahead of the domestic season, Jaiswal has been evaluating himself in this specialized discipline. Lad noted that Jaiswal began keeping practice because he feels motivated to add another dimension to his cricket, adding that regular repetition will help him grow accustomed to the role.
Wicketkeeping Stint in Practice Game
Jaiswal put his new training into action during a warm-up fixture held in the lead-up to the domestic season. During the practice match, the opener took the gloves and carried out wicketkeeping duties for roughly 10 overs. While Jaiswal is frequently seen delivering leg-spin during net sessions, his focus on glovework suggests an effort to develop as a viable backup wicketkeeping option. Regular work behind the stumps could broaden his tactical utility across red-ball fixtures.
Ranji Opener at Wankhede Stadium
Mumbai begins their 2026-27 Ranji Trophy campaign against Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium on October 11. While Jaiswal will take the field for this opening encounter, national duty will rule him out of Mumbai's subsequent second match due to travel commitments for the New Zealand tour. In the squad announced recently for the domestic tournament, Lad was named captain while Suryakumar Yadav was not included.
