Published By: Sanchari Das

BGT 2024: Another Record of Sachin Tendulkar in Threat as THIS Indian Gears-Up to Smash It

For over a decade, Sachin Tendulkar's record of most Test runs in a calendar year has remained untouched

Records are meant to be broken, but some seem untouchable—like Sachin Tendulkar's monumental tally of 1,562 Test runs in a single calendar year. For over a decade, no Indian batter has come close to dethroning this iconic feat. Yet, in 2024, a 22-year-old southpaw, Yashasvi Jaiswal, has sparked hope and excitement. With just 282 runs standing between him and the record, the question looms: can this young prodigy achieve the impossible? Fans across the world are waiting with bated breath.

A Record Within Reach

Jaiswal has amassed 1,280 runs in 12 matches this year at an impressive average of 58.18. This tally includes three centuries and seven fifties, with a career-best 214. To break Tendulkar's record of 1,562 Test runs in a calendar year, achieved in 2010, Jaiswal needs 282 more runs. Considering his current form, many believe he can surpass this milestone and become the highest run-scorer for India in a single year.

Rising Through the Ranks

Jaiswal has been a revelation since his Test debut in July 2023. He has shown remarkable consistency, with 1,568 runs in just 15 matches at an average of 58.07. Earlier this year, he became the third Indian to score consecutive double centuries in Test cricket, following in Vinod Kambli's and Virat Kohli's footsteps. His double tons against England in Visakhapatnam and Rajkot highlighted his adaptability across different conditions.

A Fiery Knock in Perth

Jaiswal showcased his brilliance in the second innings of the first Test against Australia at Perth's Optus Stadium. From November 22 to 25, the 22-year-old opener lit up the field with a sensational knock of 161 runs. Facing 297 deliveries, he struck 15 fours and three sixes, dismantling the Australian bowling attack. In a commanding opening stand, Jaiswal and KL Rahul (77) piled up 201 runs, compensating for the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma.

Comparisons With the Master Blaster

Tendulkar's record, achieved over 14 matches in 2010, came with seven hundred and five fifties at an average of 78.10. While Jaiswal has fewer centuries this year, his ability to score big in pressure situations has drawn comparisons with the Master Blaster. Indian fans are eager to see whether he can maintain his form and emulate Tendulkar's monumental feat.

Climbing the Leaderboard

Jaiswal is currently ninth on the list of most Test runs in a calendar year by an Indian batter. He trails stalwarts like Sunil Gavaskar, Rahul Dravid, and Virat Kohli but has the potential to leapfrog them in the coming weeks. On the global stage, Pakistan's Mohammad Yousuf holds the record for most Test runs in a year, with 1,788 in 2006.

Eyeing the No. 1 Spot

Jaiswal's heroics in Perth have also propelled him to the No. 2 position in the ICC Test batter rankings. With three more matches in the series, he can surpass England's Joe Root and claim the top spot. Such an achievement would cement his status as one of the brightest young talents in cricket today.

A Career-Defining Year

As India gears up for the pink-ball Test in Adelaide, the spotlight remains firmly on Jaiswal. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, the team is aiming to take a 2-0 lead in the five-Test series. Jaiswal's performances will be crucial for India's chances and his quest to etch his name in cricketing history. Can the young opener achieve what many consider impossible and break Tendulkar's record? Only time will tell, but the journey promises to be thrilling.