Former Sri Lankan captain and current Rajasthan Royals’ Director of Cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, has opened up about the mental challenges Yashasvi Jaiswal faces, particularly after getting dismissed. According to Sangakkara, Jaiswal tends to dwell heavily on how he gets out, and that lingering disappointment can affect his focus, especially when he’s needed on the field shortly after.

Jaiswal, who kickstarted the Test series against England with a superb century at Leeds, followed it up with a dominant 87 at Edgbaston. Despite his exploits with the bat, the left-hander’s fielding has come under the scanner, particularly in the first Test at Headingley where he dropped four crucial catches—errors that arguably contributed to India’s defeat.

Sangakkara believes this pattern of overthinking could continue to haunt India if Jaiswal doesn’t learn to compartmentalize and stay present.

ALSO READ: RCB Faces Potential Ban as BCCI Acts on IPS Officer’s Complaint Over Bengaluru Stampede

“If Jaiswal had to go out and field right after getting out the way he did—just 13 runs short of another hundred—you’re not going to get anything from him on the field. He’d be mentally stuck on, ‘I missed another century. When do I bat next? Will I get another opportunity?’ That’s how he thinks,” Kumar Sangakkara said during his appearance on Sky Sports.

While he was critical of Jaiswal’s inability to move on from setbacks, Kumar Sangakkara also didn’t hold back on his praise for the young batter’s natural flair and growth since his debut. He recalled first seeing Jaiswal four years ago at the Rajasthan Royals’ camp, where he stood out alongside fellow youngsters Anuj Rawat and Mahipal Lomror.

WATCH – Ravindra Jadeja Warned by Umpire for Running on Pitch Amid Tense Exchange with England

“He was just a kid then, but even at that age, you could tell he was special,” Kumar Sangakkara said. “He’s still very young, but he’s matured remarkably. What’s impressive is that he has a clear method for every format and an unrelenting hunger to succeed. That mindset sets him apart.”

Jaiswal’s ability to convert his immense talent into consistent performances remains unquestioned—but as Sangakkara suggests, mastering the mental game might be the next big leap in his journey.