NEW DELHI: Ravindra Jadeja's back to his wicket-taking ways just in time for the big showdown with Australia. The Indian all-rounder rediscovered his mojo in the Mumbai Test against New Zealand, bagging a remarkable ten-wicket haul. This came as a huge relief after a bit of a dry spell with the ball.
The big question now is, can he carry this red-hot form into the Border-Gavaskar Trophy starting on November 22?
India might have suffered a series whitewash against the Kiwis, but Jadeja's performance was one of the few silver linings for them. Before the Mumbai Test, his wicket-taking numbers in 2024 were a bit underwhelming. He had only taken one five-wicket haul, a 5/41 against England in Rajkot. That was his sole fifer in the last 26 innings leading to the final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede stadium.
He even went wicketless twice in the first two Tests against New Zealand. But then came the turnaround in Mumbai. Jadeja spun a web around the Kiwi batsmen, grabbing 5 for 65 and 5 for 55 in the two innings. This incredible performance took his tally for the year to a respectable 44 wickets in 18 innings, with three five-wicket hauls.
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Though overshadowed by Ajaz Patel's 11-wicket haul in the match, Jadeja's performance was a statement.
Jadeja’s return to form couldn't have come at a better time for India. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is just around the corner, and a confident, wicket-taking Jadeja is crucial for India's chances.
But Jadeja's brilliance doesn't end with his bowling. He's been a valuable lower-order contributor with the bat too.
In 2024, he racked up a solid 431 runs at an average of 28.73. He's also smashed a century and two fifties this year, proving his all-round value to the team.
All eyes will be on Jadeja as India gear up for the Aussie challenge. If he can replicate his Mumbai magic, India will be highly benefited as they look to book a spot in the World Test Championship final with a solid series win in Australia.
