Former India player Sunil Gavaskar has defended India all-rounder Ravindra Jajeda from critics amid his poor showing in the 2024 T20
World Cup. The veteran has failed to do well with both the bat and ball in the tournament, averaging eight with the willow and 78 with the
ball in six games as well. However, after their latest win over Australia, Gavaskar shut down critics of the veteran all-rounder as well.

He said on Star Sports: “I don’t think we should even think about questioning (Jadeja). The problem with India and Indian fans is, 2 bad games and you go what to do with him, what to do with him? You know that is the worry. Nobody who asks these questions even thinks about their own professions, whether they have made 2 errors and whether people are questioning their place in their own profession, whichever profession they are. 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.”

Sunil Gavaskar further defended Ravindra Jadeja by saying his incredible fielding effort and the value it adds to the Indian side as well. Although Jadeja has taken only three catches so far, he has remained his usual live wire in the field as well.

“I am not at all concerned as he is very experienced. For whatever opportunities he’s got, he’s done well. And don’t forget, in the field itself, he saved 20 to 30 runs with his fielding ability, taking catches, and getting the run out. 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,” concluded Sunil Gavaskar.