While several Indian cricket superstars have struggled to make an impact in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, Ravindra Jadeja has stood out with a brilliant performance for Saurashtra in Rajkot. The left-arm spinner took 12 wickets to lead his team to a dominant victory over Delhi at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, showcasing his mastery over domestic conditions.
Unlike Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Rishabh Pant, who have faced challenges upon their return to domestic cricket, Jadeja has been more consistent and dedicated to playing for Saurashtra, making valuable contributions year after year. After recovering from an injury layoff, Jadeja used the Ranji Trophy last season to regain both his form and match fitness. His familiarity with the pitch and conditions in Rajkot played a key role as he dismantled Delhi’s batting lineup with ease.
Teaming up with his namesake, Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, the two left-arm spinners took a combined 16 wickets in the match, with Saurashtra securing a remarkable 10-wicket victory, chasing down a modest 12-run target in the second innings. Jadeja’s all-round performance didn’t stop at the ball. He also played a crucial knock with the bat, scoring 38 off 36 balls in Saurashtra’s first innings.
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With his 12-wicket haul, Jadeja surpassed the 550-wicket mark in first-class cricket, further cementing his legacy. In contrast, Rishabh Pant endured a tough match. He was dismissed for just 1 in the first innings while attempting a sweep shot and, despite spending 26 deliveries in the second innings, he was dismissed for 17 by Jadeja.
RAVINDRA JADEJA DOMINATED DELHI IN RANJI TROPHY 🤗
– world’s number one all rounder , modern great 💛 pic.twitter.com/mU2MPyZ8te
— Akshay Tadvi 🇮🇳 (@AkshayTadvi28) January 24, 2025
Saurashtra posted 271 in their first innings, led by a solid 93 from Harvik Desai, gaining a lead of 83 runs. Delhi’s first innings crumbled at 188, undone by Jadeja’s brilliance, and their second innings was even worse, as they were bowled out for just 94. Jadeja took seven wickets, further showcasing his dominance.
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Delhi’s only bright spot was captain Ayush Badoni, who contributed 60 runs in the first innings and fought valiantly in the second with 44 runs, almost half of his team’s total. Virat Kohli, expected to play in this match, had to withdraw due to injury but is likely to return for Delhi’s final game of the tournament against Railways, starting on January 30.
Ravindra Jadeja’s stunning performance in this match will surely boost his confidence as he prepares for the upcoming ODI series against England, beginning on February 6. He has also been included in India’s 15-man squad for the Champions Trophy, which kicks off on February 19.
