India outclassed Zimbabwe by 10 wickets in the fourth T20I in Harare on Saturday (July 13) to take an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.
Chasing 153 to win, the opening duo of Yashasvi Jaiswal (93* off 53) and Shubman Gill (58* off 39) slammed stunning half-centuries as the Men in Blue overhauled the target with 28 deliveries to spare.
After the game, Jaiswal said he and Gill are focusing on their process rather than the high expectations following the retirements of legends like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from T20Is.
Kohli and Rohit, who played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 title win last month, left a significant legacy that Jaiswal feels fortunate to have witnessed and been part of.
"I think what they have done for Indian cricket is just incredible and being a part of that dressing room is a blessing. We (him and Gill) are trying to take it match-by-match and one day at a time, focusing on the process," Jaiswal was quoted as saying by PTI during a media interaction.
The southpaw appreciated the mentorship he received from the two stalwarts. "It does help to control emotions a lot and read the game better as there are different situations on the ground. And every time you talk to Rohit bhai or Virat bhaiyya, I get a lot of experience, enjoy talking to them and learning from them," he added.
Unlike many young cricketers who make a transition from T20 formats to longer formats, Jaiswal began his international career as a Test opener before excelling in the shortest format.
The explosive left-hander attributed his achievements to thorough practice and a determined mindset.
"I think it's not easy and I work hard on my practice, try to prepare a lot, and try to execute and express myself and enjoy the game. My mindset is simple. If I have to take someone (a bowler) on, I will take him on and keep believing that I can do it," the 22-year-old stated.
When asked about his rapid rise in cricket, Yashasvi Jaiswal gave a fairly humble and philosophical reply.
"To be honest, a lot of things happened in my life. I am really enjoying it. I just try to take one day at a time and make sure I enjoy the moment which is very important. Everything else is in God's hands and whatever he gives, I will take it," he concluded.
The fifth and final T20I between India and Zimbabwe will be played in Harare on Sunday (July 14).
