Yashasvi Jaiswal shares MS Dhoni’s advice, “The kind of human being you become will define your life,” at their first meeting.

The opening player for India and the previous match’s double-centurion, Yashasvi Jaiswal, spoke exclusively to JioCinema on a variety of subjects on the eve of the third Test against England at Rajkot, which begins on Thursday.

Excerpts:

Regarding his ranking of all his knocks, he said that the double century in the second Test stood out the most: “Every inning has its own satisfaction; there’s a different fun to each one, so every time I score runs, I enjoy it.”

“We spent some time, ate and drank together; this was a moment that needed to be savoured,” he said of how his family celebrated his knock. In my dream, I imagined myself celebrating in a specific way each time I reached a double century. Thus, I had planned out my celebration in my head for quite some time.

Regarding the psychological adaptations required for a five-match test series, “I was thrilled to learn that it is a five-match series.” You would need to experience many stages. I had a lot to learn because things would sometimes seem easy and other times they could get difficult. I considered it an opportunity to spend more time enjoying myself with the crew. From the West Indies to South Africa and back to India, I have thoroughly loved the trip. I’m really loving it, but there’s been a lot to learn.

Regarding the adaptations required to play in various environments in South Africa, India, and the West Indies: “Every location has its own culture, and we as a team learn about those cultures when we travel to the Indian squad. Our elders teach us. I talk to Virat Bhaiya, Rahul Sir, and Rohit Bhai to find out as much as I can. There were differences between the conditions in South Africa and the West Indies. We know the conditions because we have played in India. My goal must therefore be to always learn new skills and raise my game.

About the term “Jazball,” considering how he has performed in the series, MS Dhoni said, “I accept whatever name is given to me with love.”

However, Yashasvi Jaiswal is my last name, so I’d be flattered if that was my given name.

Regarding the possibility of verbal exchanges with James Anderson during the second test, the answer is “no, nothing in particular.” I have to show respect if there’s a good ball. I have to score if there is a loose ball. I had a terrific time playing with him because he is one of the best bowlers in the world.

About changing the game’s format: “Each format has its own set of criteria. Various times of the day are when they are played. Test matches are held during the day, and Twenty20 matches take place in the evening. The red sphere sways and seams. I’ve spent the last few years playing a lot of red ball and white ball cricket, so I know a good deal about how to handle these circumstances. However, keeping a positive outlook is what unites both models. I make an effort to meet the needs of the team, since they are vital.

Regarding his first encounter with MS Dhoni, he said, “I was really happy when I saw him for the first time and did a namaste,” referring to pictures of him holding folded hands. I was genuinely unsure of how to respond to him, what to say, and whether namaste was a sign of respect for him as an elder. That was my first-ever IPL game; therefore, I believe that’s when I felt the most apprehensive. It was a really lovely moment when MS Dhoni Sir was keeping. I will always cherish the picture since it is among the best of my life.

“He told me two key things when we spoke after the game. Cricket is great, but what really matters in life is the kind of person you end up being. Hence, my life outside of cricket matters a great deal to me. Naturally, I make mistakes, but I also get a lot of knowledge from them. I always try to be a decent person. He also informed me that I could get my injections back. He advised me to play my best when I’m under pressure. Therefore, I am constantly searching for that.