The Indian cricket team recorded a resounding 434-run victory over England in the third Test at Rajkot, and the local hero, Ravindra Jadeja, played a pivotal role in propelling the hosts to a 2-1 lead in the ongoing five-match Test series.

Jadeja was at his best in his all-round brilliance, as he made 112 in the first innings and scalped 7 wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings, to ensure India took the lead in the series.

The Indian allrounder was also involved in a crucial 200+ run parternship with Indian skipper Rohit Sharma (131) to bring the hosts back into the game after a setback given by England in Rajkot.

After the third Test, reflecting on his crucial partnership with Rohit, Jadeja stressed his focus on playing to his strengths to make a substantial impact on the game in Rajkot.

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Ravindra Jadeja said after the game: “I was just looking to build partnerships with Rohit, we were in a difficult situation, look to back my strengths, play my shots, not try and be more conscious. Watch the ball and play the ball.”

The 35-year-old allrounder also admitted that his experience and understanding of the Rajkot pitch played a significant role in his performance and winning toss bolstered India’s chances in the game.

He further said, “I know about this wicket, if we bat first, it is always good to bat on, in the second half it starts spinning, when Rohit won the toss, we were thinking: this is all that we wanted, bat first, bowl second.”

Jadeja signed off by saying, “On this wicket, you won’t get easy wickets, you have to work hard for it. You need to throw balls in good areas, you have to earn your wickets.”

Notably, the fourth Test between India and England will be played in Ranchi from February 23.

(ANi inputs)