Ravindra Jadeja’s impactful batting performances have consistently drawn praise, with cricket legend Anil Kumble highlighting his technique and crucial contributions.
Anil Kumble’s Vote of Confidence
After Ravindra Jadeja’s solid 72 runs from 131 balls in the first innings, former India spinner Anil Kumble openly shared his confidence in Jadeja’s batting abilities. Kumble had an early feeling that the all-rounder could be a decisive factor in the Lord’s match.
Speaking after Day 2, Kumble lauded Jadeja’s maturity and consistency with the bat. He emphasized that while Jadeja’s skill has always been evident, his consistent delivery for India has been exceptional.
More Than Just a Bowler
Kumble highlighted Jadeja’s multifaceted value to the team. “Ravindra Jadeja offers so much, not just with the ball, but also with the bat and on the field,” he stated. He pointed out that contributions like Jadeja’s are vital for any team.
Kumble even reminded everyone of Jadeja’s impressive first-class record, including two triple hundreds, showcasing his genuine batting technique. This temperament has also been crucial in helping teams like CSK and India clinch titles in the shortest format.
Steering the Lower Order
Jadeja often bats lower down the order, yet he consistently forms crucial partnerships with tailenders. In the first innings, his 50-run stand with Washington Sundar was instrumental in pushing India’s total close to 387.
In the second innings, facing a daunting task, Jadeja showcased immense resilience. He batted for 162 balls, scoring 56 runs by tea. He calmly shepherded Nitish Kumar Reddy for 53 balls and Jasprit Bumrah for 54 balls, even after the departure of Washington Sundar.
A Batter’s Temperament and Technique
Despite batting with the lower order, Jadeja’s clear defense and run-gathering skills stood out. Kumble was particularly impressed with how he constructed his innings, likening it to a regular top-order batter.
“The way he builds and constructs his innings has been brilliant to watch,” Kumble noted. He added that Jadeja has certainly justified his promotion to number six in the batting order, consistently making useful contributions.
- Ravindra Jadeja’s batting technique is strong, evidenced by two first-class triple hundreds.
- He consistently delivers vital contributions with the bat, ball, and in the field.
- Jadeja excels at building crucial partnerships with lower-order batsmen.
- Anil Kumble has consistently praised Jadeja’s batting maturity and consistency.
As the match heads down to the wire with India still needing runs and only one wicket remaining, Jadeja’s ability to “manage the impossible” with Siraj is the team’s last hope.
