Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar on Saturday (February 11) heaped praise on Ravindra Jadeja for his stellar all-rounder showing in India’s innings and 132-run victory over Australia in the opening Border-Gavaskar Trophy at VCA Stadium, Nagpur.
It was Jadeja’s comeback match for India after a lengthy hiatus due to knee surgery and he certainly made his presence felt.
Jadeja starred with both bat and ball for India and deservedly earned the Player of the Match award. While the southpaw scored 70 in India’s only innings, he returned with seven scalps in the match, including a five-wicket haul in Australia’s first essay.
Gavaskar was lauded Akshar Patel for stepping up and delivering for India when Jadeja was out of the team due to injury.
“Here is a man who has been performing regularly for India. He was out of the team due to injury, after which Akshar Patel comes in and grabs his chance and that is such a fantastic thing for Indian cricket to have bench strength where players are ready,” Gavaskar was quoted as saying to India Today.
“Jadeja’s comeback has been tremendous. We didn’t see much about his fielding as he was at mid-off and there about. But as a bowler, he was on target from the outset. As a batter, he once again showed that he is going to score more and more runs for India. His wicket has to be earned by the opposition,” he added.
Speaking after the game, Ravindra Jadeja said it feels amazing to do well on his return to the Indian team. He also thanked the NCA staff and physios for helping him during the rehabilitation period.
“Feeling amazing. When you come back after five months and give your 100 percent, scoring runs and taking wickets.. feels amazing. Was working hard at the NCA. Would like to thank the NCA staff, physios. They have been working hard with me, even on Sundays,” Jadeja said at the post-match presentation ceremony.
“Was looking to bowl in good areas. Ball was spinning, going straight, keeping low. Kept telling myself to bowl at the stumps - if they make mistake, I have a chance. I look to keep things simple. Try not to change things with my batting,” he added.
