The Indian cricket team has been put on high alert ahead of the third Test against England at Headingley as concerns mount over Yashasvi Jaiswal’s catching form. Following his two crucial drops at Edgbaston that cost India valuable runs, team management is reportedly working overtime to rectify the opener’s fielding woes before the must-win game.
Jaiswal’s Catching Struggles Under Scanner
During England’s first innings at Edgbaston, Jaiswal dropped Joe Root early on 28 off Bumrah, who went on to score a match-defining 167. In the second innings, he grassed Ben Stokes at slip, which allowed England to add crucial tail-end runs and stretch their lead. His frustration was visible when he later confessed:
“Oh my god. I missed a 100. Two catches, it’s like I gave them 100 runs.”
This admission reflects not only his disappointment but also the growing realisation within the squad of how these lapses could cost them the series.
Recent Catches Dropped By Yashasvi Jaiswal
| Match | Opponent | Player Dropped | Runs Scored After Drop | Match Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd Test 2025 | England | Joe Root | 139 | Lost by 7 wickets |
| 2nd Test 2025 | England | Ben Stokes | 42 | Lost by 7 wickets |
| 1st Test 2025 | England | Ollie Pope | 22 | Won by 4 wickets |
Fielding coach T Dilip is believed to be spending extended sessions with Jaiswal to iron out his technique, especially his reflexes and footwork in the slip cordon.
Shubman Gill’s Role Under High Alert
Shubman Gill, who is regarded as one of India’s safest fielders, has reportedly been asked to take additional catching practice and cover slip duties if Jaiswal’s form does not improve in net sessions. Gill’s alertness is critical given India’s pace-heavy attack with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj inducing frequent edges.
Why Jaiswal’s Drops Hurt Team India
- Psychological Pressure: Dropped catches deflate bowlers and energise opposition batters.
- Momentum Shifts: England’s ability to build partnerships post drops swung the Edgbaston Test decisively.
- Missed Opportunity For Series Lead: India could have entered Headingley with a 2-0 lead instead of 1-1.
Batting coach Vikram Rathour defended Jaiswal in press interactions, stating:
“He is young and learning. Catching is about confidence. We back him to come good.”
However, sources indicate the team is considering moving Jaiswal to mid-off or mid-on if his catching drills remain inconsistent.
Shubman Gill: Under Pressure With The Bat Too
While fielding adjustments are in focus, Shubman Gill’s batting form is also under scrutiny. His last four innings read 23, 18, 12, and 32. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar suggested:
“Shubman is tentative early. He needs to trust his defence and build from there.”
Given India’s top-order dependence on Rohit Sharma and Jaiswal for quick starts, Gill’s consistency at No. 3 is pivotal to avoid exposing the middle-order too soon.
Upcoming Practice Drills Before Headingley Test
| Date | Session Focus | Key Players |
|---|---|---|
| July 4 | High-intensity slip catching | Jaiswal, Gill, Rohit |
| July 4 | Short-ball batting drills | Gill, Jaiswal |
| July 5 | Full match simulation | Entire squad |
Bowling coach Paras Mhambrey is also working with Siraj and Mukesh Kumar to target England’s slip-catching vulnerabilities by inducing edges with tight off-stump lines.
England’s Perspective: Targeting Jaiswal’s Fielding
Reports from the England camp suggest they will intentionally manoeuvre singles to keep Jaiswal under pressure in catching positions, forcing self-doubt and potential lapses. England coach Brendon McCullum is said to have told players:
“If they leak in the field, we’ll punish them with runs.”
Fans React To Jaiswal’s Drops
Social media has been abuzz with mixed reactions:
- Supporters: “He is just 22. Give him time. Even Dravid dropped catches early.”
- Critics: “These are basic mistakes at the highest level. Could cost us the series.”
The Bigger Picture For Team India
India’s catching success rate has dipped in this series, with only 78% chances converted compared to 91% against South Africa last winter. This decline has been attributed to:
- Frequent changes in slip cordon personnel.
- Lack of specialist slip fielders for spinners.
- Overreliance on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who are both now stationed closer in.
Statistical View: India’s Catching Efficiency In Tests Since 2022
| Series | Catches Taken | Catches Dropped | Efficiency % |
|---|---|---|---|
| SA (2022) | 33 | 3 | 91.7% |
| NZ (2023) | 28 | 4 | 87.5% |
| Aus (2024) | 45 | 8 | 84.9% |
| Eng (2025)* | 17 | 5 | 77.2% |
*Two Tests completed so far
Headingley Test: Selection Dilemma?
India is unlikely to drop Jaiswal given his aggressive batting value. However, if his catching lapses continue, KL Rahul may be drafted as an additional safe catcher in the cordon, pushing Jaiswal to outfield positions.
What’s Next?
The third Test begins on July 6 at Headingley, with the series poised 1-1. India will be aiming to:
- Plug fielding gaps to convert every chance.
- Improve top-order batting stability with Gill and Jaiswal converting starts into centuries.
- Maintain bowling intensity as seen under Bumrah’s spells in Edgbaston.
Team insiders reveal a strong focus on mental conditioning sessions to rebuild fielding confidence before the critical match.
Conclusion
While Yashasvi Jaiswal’s fearless batting has reinvigorated India’s Test starts, his catching struggles have emerged as a weak link that England will look to exploit. As Shubman Gill sharpens his slip skills under high alert, India’s hopes of regaining series momentum depend significantly on their catching success – a factor that has often determined the difference between glory and heartbreak in overseas Tests.
