Yashasvi Jaiswal, the young Indian opener, has found himself at the center of a social media storm following India's defeat in the first Test against England at Headingley. Despite scoring a century in the first innings, Jaiswal's poor fielding performance, highlighted by dropping four catches, has drawn heavy criticism from fans and experts alike. A video circulating online showing Jaiswal dancing near the boundary line after dropping a crucial catch has further fueled the outrage.

Jaiswal's fielding woes began early in the match. He dropped three catches in England's first innings, all off the bowling of Jasprit Bumrah. These missed opportunities proved costly, as the batsmen he gave reprieves to – Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook – went on to score significant runs, contributing to England's strong reply to India's first innings total. Specifically, Jaiswal dropped Duckett when he was on 15, who then went on to score 62. He dropped Pope on 60, who then reached a century, and Brook on 83, who eventually scored 99. India's overall fielding performance was subpar, with the team dropping six catches before the Tea break on Day 3, marking their worst performance in five years.

However, the most significant drop occurred on Day 5 when Jaiswal dropped Ben Duckett off Mohammed Siraj's bowling while Duckett was on 97. Duckett capitalized on this lifeline, scoring a match-winning 149 that guided England to chase down a target of 371.

The timing of the viral video, showing Jaiswal dancing and smiling shortly after dropping Duckett, added insult to injury for many fans. Social media platforms were flooded with angry reactions, with some users questioning Jaiswal's commitment and focus. Some fans even called for his exclusion from the next Test match, arguing that such fielding lapses are unacceptable at the international level and cost India the game. Critics online didn't hold back their frustration. Some pointed fingers at Jaiswal for costing India the Test match and even called for him to be dropped from the next game.

However, Jaiswal has also received some support. Indian coach Gautam Gambhir defended Jaiswal, stating that even the best fielders drop catches and that no one does it on purpose. Jasprit Bumrah also acknowledged the dropped catches, adding that he understands nobody is doing it on purpose. Bumrah cited cold conditions and inexperience as possible reasons, urging critics not to judge harshly. Former India off-spinner R Ashwin urged fans to cut Jaiswal some slack, explaining the difficulties of catching in English conditions with the Duke's ball. He pointed out the challenges posed by the cold weather and the feel of the Duke's ball, which can take some adaptation time.

Despite the criticism, it's important to remember that Jaiswal is still young and relatively new to international cricket. While his fielding performance in the first Test was undoubtedly poor, it's crucial to avoid overly harsh judgments and allow him the opportunity to learn and improve.