Yashasvi Jaiswal's breakout ODI century against South Africa highlighted not just his batting maturity but also his growing camaraderie with Virat Kohli, as the youngster revealed an anecdote on the India star recently.
In the decisive third ODI in Visakhapatnam earlier this month, India chased 271 with ease, securing a 2-1 series win thanks to Jaiswal's unbeaten 116 off 121 balls alongside Kohli's supportive 57 off 42. This marked Jaiswal's fourth ODI appearance, following modest starts of 18 and 22 in the series, and came after an opening stand of 155 with Rohit Sharma (75).
Jaiswal's new hairstyle, reminiscent of Salman Khan's iconic look in the film Tere Naam, sparked Kohli's mischief during the match. Kohli sang lines from the song "Lagan
Lag Gayi Re" and even danced to tease the young opener, a moment captured in a viral clip that amused teammates.
Reflecting on the knock in an interview with sports journalist Vimal Kumar, Jaiswal shared a hilarious moment which depicts the mischievous side of Kohli.
"There is a song called 'Lagan Lag Gayi Re'. So Kohli was singing that song to me and dancing. That was a fun conversation. Even before I went to bat, he was telling me things. His sense of humour is great, and he is very funny. But when he is serious, the entire world knows the level of intensity with which he plays. I really enjoy playing with him," said Jaiswal.
Despite nerves nearing his milestone-reached off 111 balls, Jaiswal praised Kohli's pre-batting advice for steadying him in the patient innings.
Jaiswal now eyes India's squad for the upcoming New Zealand ODIs and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, though Shubman Gill's return intensifies competition for the opener's spot.
The southpaw was recently snubbed from India's squad for the T20 World Cup, and he hasn't really broken into the limited-overs team. If Jaiswal can continue his merry way against New Zealand, selectors will have to seriously consider his place in the side ahead of upcoming assignments.
Virat Kohli, on the other hand, has continued his recent form in the Viay Hazare Trophy as well. Kohli scored a hundred, followed by a stellar half-century for Delhi in the first two matches of the domestic competition.
