Yashasvi Jaiswal’s journey to the top of Indian cricket has been anything but ordinary. Born in Uttar Pradesh, the 23-year-old made headlines in 2019 as the youngest player to score a double century in List A cricket. He later impressed fans in the IPL with the Rajasthan Royals, but his rise to stardom was built on years of struggle and determination. In a recent podcast with Raj Shamani, Jaiswal opened up about the hardships he faced while chasing his dream. In Mumbai, he lived in tents and sold pani puris just to survive. “I used to stay with my uncle for some time, and then I got a chance to stay in a tent at a club called Muslim United. I had to play a game I wanted to excel at, and when I performed well, they offered me a place to stay,” he recalled. Life at the club was tough but formative. “The people there became my family. If they were cooking or needed help after practice, I would assist them to earn a little money. That was my life back then, and it taught me that no work is too small if you give it your 100 per cent,” Jaiswal said.Also Watch:
Beyond the hardships, he reflected on how he channels his aggression on the field. “I often talk to myself in the mirror for 10–15 minutes. It helps me stay focused. When I perform well, I make sure to applaud myself and get ready for the next challenge,” he shared. Jaiswal explained the fine balance between confidence and overconfidence. “I have aggression, but I always remind myself what’s important for the team. You must control it—confidence is essential, but overconfidence can cost you,” he said, showing the maturity behind his explosive talent. From selling street food to starring on cricket’s biggest stages, Yashasvi Jaiswal’s story is one of perseverance, grit, and unwavering focus on his dream.
