With an eye on the future, Yashasvi Jaiswal tries his hand at ’keeping

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s return to Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy set-up for Sunday’s season-opener against Chandigarh may offer the India Test opening batter more than just another opportunity to get red-ball game-time.

The 24-year-old has also been trying his hand at wicketkeeping, according to Mumbai captain Siddhesh Lad, with images of Jaiswal donning the big gloves during the team’s preparations at the Wankhede Stadium having surfaced online. “He is trying hard to start keeping wickets. That’s what I heard from him. He wants to keep wickets for Mumbai or for the Indian team [in the future]. That is what he is aiming for,” Lad said on Thursday.

Jaiswal’s experiment with the gloves adds another dimension to a player who, during his formative years, bowled occasional leg-spin. While batting has remained his overwhelming strength, he has bowled six overs in international cricket.

For Mumbai, however, his “value” remains that of an experienced top-order batter. Jaiswal is expected to play only the first Ranji fixture before travelling to New Zealand, where he will turn out for India-A in three four-day matches against NZ-A ahead of the Test series.

Lad said Jaiswal had made his availability known to the Mumbai selectors even before the team approached him. “I met Yashasvi, and he looks to be in a great place right now. We are very happy to have him. He is available just for the first game if I am not wrong.

“But someone like Yashasvi doesn’t only add to the performances, he adds value to the team with his experience. He told the selection committee that he wanted to come and play for Mumbai even before we asked him.”

Jaiswal’s commitment to Mumbai has assumed greater significance since he reversed his decision to leave the association for Goa in April 2025. He has subsequently been more involved in the team’s affairs, making himself available whenever not on international duty.