NEW DELHI: Former Australian cricketer Greg Chappell has commended India's dominance in world cricket, emphasising the pivotal role of their robust domestic cricket system. He credits the structured framework for nurturing young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, who represent the bright future of Indian cricket.
Jaiswal's brilliance was on full display during his stunning 161-run innings against Australia in Perth. His knock showcased exceptional technique and composure, playing a vital role in India's commanding 295-run victory.
Chappell highlighted Jaiswal's remarkable journey from a 10-year-old aspiring cricketer in Mumbai to becoming a key figure in India's batting lineup.
Chappell emphasised how stories like Jaiswal's showcase the strength of India's domestic system in identifying and nurturing raw talent, providing them with opportunities to excel on the international stage.
"Jaiswal's journey encapsulates why India's planning and infrastructure give them a clear edge in world cricket," Chappell wrote in his column for the Sydney Morning Herald.
Lauding Jaiswal's fearless approach and technical brilliance, Chappell wrote, "The young opener is fearless and appears poised to inherit the mantle of Indian batting excellence, following the likes of Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar."
Chappell, who served as India’s head coach from 2005 to 2007, contrasted the Indian and Australian cricketing systems in terms of grooming young talent for traditional formats like Test cricket.
"A comparison with Australia's Nathan McSweeney is illuminating," Chappell observed. "At 22, Jaiswal has already played 14 Tests, 30 first-class matches, 32 List A games, and 53 IPL matches. In contrast, McSweeney, 25, has just debuted in Tests, with fewer domestic appearances across formats."
Chappell also lauded former coach Rahul Dravid's significant contribution to India's cricketing success, particularly through his leadership in junior cricket programs.
He credited Dravid with fostering a culture that emphasizes the importance of red-ball cricket at the grassroots level, ensuring a steady flow of talent equipped for traditional formats like Tests.
"India's system prioritises long-form cricket at the youth level. This ensures players are well-versed in the nuances of the game. When India's U-19 team plays other countries, it often feels like men playing against boys in terms of game awareness," Chappell pointed.
"The lack of competitive matches at a young age leaves Australian players less prepared for international needs. Without significant changes, we risk falling further behind."
