Ravindra Jadeja serves as an all rounder for Hardik Pandya, at times when India needs a better depth in batting, and as a third spinner if conditions are such. And thus, his batting in Saturday’s warm-up clash against New Zealand should play out very well for himself and the team.
After India got elected to bat on a wicket, none of the three opening options – Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul managed to make a mark on the field, all falling to Trent Boult. Even the main man, Virat Kohli fell soon after and India were left reeling at 39 for 4 in the 11th over.
After a few quick runs made by Pandya, Dhoni and Jadeja, the Indian team were reduced to 77 for 5, and three balls later, slid to 81 for 6. Even after the batting collapse, Jadeja believes there isn’t much to fret about the top order’s failure.
Jadeja said the following at the post-match press conference, “We wanted to bat first on purpose, to test ourselves in seaming conditions. Because if we go and bat on such a green pitch, it will become easier for the batsmen when they get flat tracks to bat on. Had it been during the tournament, we would have taken a better decision after winning the toss.”
“Typical England conditions, they were. The wicket was a bit soft in the first 15-20 overs. It got better and better as the match progressed,” he added later. “It’s just a matter of one game. You can’t judge a player from one bad innings. We just need to work harder and focus more on our batting skills. Hopefully, during the (world cup) matches, we get a different wicket, better wicket to bat on.”
Amidst all of this, Jadeja’s half-century was a standout point. The southpaw stroked a 50-ball 54, including six boundaries and two sixes. A key feature of the knock was the 62-run stand he shared with Kuldeep Yadav for the ninth wicket to take India to a total of respectability.
Explaining his innings, he said, “My shot selections were simple. Initially, when they were bowling in good areas, I let the balls go and then it got easier for me. I was working on my batting during IPL as well. Whenever I get time in the nets, I work on my basic technique and shot selection. I won’t take any extra pressure due to the world cup. Will try to keep my thinking process simple.”
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