Ravindra Jadeja is arguably the finest spin-bowling all-rounder to have played for India national cricket team. He is also regarded as one of the best fielders of all time in world cricket. Jadeja is the only batter to score three triple centuries in the Ranji Trophy, a remarkable achievement in domestic cricket.
However, in his initial years at the international level, the Saurashtra all-rounder often flattered to deceive with the bat. His fielding was exceptional from the outset, while his bowling gradually improved across all formats of the game.
Now, at the age of 37, Jadeja boasts an impressive Test batting average of 38.27, while with the ball he averages 25.12, highlighting his value as a genuine all-rounder.
In this article, we look back at the first Test between India and Sri Lanka in March 2022, when Jadeja became only the sixth cricketer in Test history to score 150-plus runs and take a five-wicket haul in the same match.
How Did Ravindra Jadeja Dominate the 2022 Mohali Test Against Sri Lanka?
This memorable Test match was played at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, Chandigarh. The two-match series was part of the ICC World Test Championship cycle.
Indian captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and elected to bat first on a good batting surface. He opened the innings alongside Mayank Agarwal and the pair added 52 runs for the first wicket.
Although both openers got promising starts, neither could convert them into substantial scores. Hanuma Vihari produced a gritty half-century, while Virat Kohli was dismissed for 45, much to the disappointment of the passionate crowd in Mohali.
India were struggling slightly at 228/5 when Jadeja walked out to bat.
How Did Jadeja and Rishabh Pant Turn the Match in India’s Favor?
Jadeja soon formed a crucial partnership with Rishabh Pant. The duo added 104 runs in quick time, putting the Sri Lankan bowlers under immense pressure.
Pant played aggressively and came agonizingly close to a century, falling just four runs short of the milestone. However, Jadeja continued to build his innings patiently and eventually reached a magnificent century.
Ravichandran Ashwin also contributed with a valuable half-century down the order. Jadeja, however, stole the spotlight with a brilliant unbeaten 175 off 228 balls, smashing 17 fours and three sixes. His innings came at an impressive strike rate of 76.75.
India eventually declared their innings at 574/8, putting the visitors under enormous pressure.
How Did Ravindra Jadeja Complete His Five-Wicket Haul in the Match?
The Sri Lankan batting lineup struggled to match Jadeja’s heroics with the bat. Apart from Pathum Nissanka, most batters failed to show resistance.
Jadeja delivered another outstanding performance, this time with the ball. He picked up a five-wicket haul on Day 3, needing just 13 overs to dismantle the Sri Lankan batting lineup as they were bowled out for 174 and forced to follow on.
In their second innings, Sri Lanka faced similar difficulties against India’s spin attack. Ashwin and Jadeja continued to dominate, claiming four wickets each.
Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 178, handing India a massive innings and 222-run victory.
Did Ravindra Jadeja Almost Create an Even Bigger Test Record?
Jadeja finished the match with 175 runs and nine wickets. Had he taken one more wicket, he would have become the first cricketer in Test history to score 150-plus runs and take 10 wickets in the same Test match.
Nevertheless, Jadeja’s extraordinary all-round performance earned him the Player of the Match award, marking the third consecutive Test in Mohali where he received the honour.
The match remains one of the most dominant all-round performances in modern Test cricket, further strengthening Jadeja’s reputation as one of the greatest all-rounders of his generation.
Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.
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