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Sunil Gavaskar Defends Jadeja: “Rock Star” All-Rounder or Unwarranted Hype?
By CricShots - Jun 26, 2024 12:36 pm
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India’s juggernaut rolls on as they head into the T20 World Cup semi-final against England. However, amidst the excitement, concerns have surfaced about the performance of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While India has enjoyed an undefeated run, Jadeja’s contributions with bat and ball have been minimal.

Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja

Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has stepped in to shield Jadeja from criticism, highlighting his overall value to the team. Despite India’s dominance, individual performances, particularly those of Kohli and Jadeja, have come under scrutiny.

Jadeja, known for his well-rounded skills, has yet to make a significant impact in the tournament. But Gavaskar remains confident in the experienced all-rounder. “He’s very experienced,” Sunil Gavaskar said on Star Sports. “For whatever opportunities he’s got, he’s done well.”

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He emphasized the often-overlooked aspects of Jadeja’s game: “Don’t forget, in the field itself, he saved 20 to 30 runs with his fielding ability, taking catches, and getting the runout. So don’t forget those 20-30 plus runs. Then he enters the field, with anything that he does with the bat and ball is an added value to his ability.”

sunil gavaskar
Sunil Gavaskar

Sunil Gavaskar further lamented the tendency of Indian fans and media to hastily question players after a few underwhelming performances.

“The problem with India and Indian fans is, Two bad games and you go, what to do with him, what to do with him? You know that is the worry,” he stated. He believes Jadeja’s talent is undeniable: “Nobody who asks these questions even thinks about their own professions… This is just simply a good topic for television, you don’t question Jadeja’s place in the playing XI. He’s a rock star.”

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With Gavaskar’s staunch backing ringing in his ears, Jadeja will aim to silence his critics and prove his worth on the big stage. As India readies for a high-voltage clash against England, all eyes will be on Jadeja to see if he can step up and deliver a match-winning performance.