Star Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has etched his name in history by becoming the second Indian, after Ravichandran Ashwin, to take 50 wickets in a World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Jadeja achieved this milestone during the third and final Test against New Zealand at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, where he delivered a stunning performance with a four-wicket haul on Day 2.
Returning to form, Jadeja dismantled the New Zealand middle order, claiming the crucial wickets of Daryl Mitchell, Tom Blundell, Ish Sodhi, and Matt Henry. His efforts left India in a favorable position, enabling them to set a target after enduring defeats in the first two matches of the series, marking their first series loss on home soil in 12 years.
Notably, Jadeja’s impressive wicket tally surpassed his previous WTC cycle performance, where he concluded with 47 wickets from 13 matches. As of now, he stands as the third-leading wicket-taker in the ongoing WTC cycle, trailing only Ashwin, who tops the list with 62 wickets, and Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood, who has taken 51 scalps.
Jadeja’s bowling form comes as a significant boost for the Indian team as they prepare for their next assignments following the New Zealand series. He previously showcased his prowess in the first innings with a five-wicket haul, bringing his total for the match to nine wickets, putting him on the cusp of achieving his third 10-wicket haul in Test cricket.
As India eyes a redemption in the Test match, they find themselves facing a New Zealand lead of 143 runs. With ample time remaining in the match, confidence is high within the Indian camp to chase down the target. However, the visitors’ bowling attack, particularly in spinning conditions, poses a significant challenge, testing India’s batting resilience.
The upcoming tour to Australia looms large as a crucial test, with Jadeja’s current form likely to be pivotal in defending the Border-Gavaskar title on foreign soil. As the Test unfolds, all eyes will be on Jadeja and the Indian team’s ability to respond effectively to the pressure.