IND vs ENG 2024: Hungry Jadeja ignores coach’s instruction to bat ‘few more balls’ in nets

Ravindra Jadeja. (Photo Source: BCCI)

Ravindra Jadeja had an extended hit at the nets on Tuesday, March 5, in preparation for the fifth and final Test match against England.

Having taken an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series, the Indian team will look to assert their dominance in Dharamsala, the venue for the fifth Test, which starts on Thursday, March 7. There was no lack of intensity in India’s practice session on Tuesday as the players tried to get accustomed to the chilly weather conditions in Himachal Pradesh in what is going to be the coldest match of the series.

Jadeja, who will be heading to the sultry Chennai to join his Indian Premier League (IPL) team – Chennai Super Kings after playing the fifth Test, relished his batting at the nets and was in no mood to let go of the opportunity to face as many balls as possible. The coaches asked him to end his session but Jadeja would request, “few more balls”. The star all-rounder’s teammates also pleaded with him to relent but to no avail.

Also read: ‘His mindset is like a top-order batter’ – Michael Vaughan heaps praise on Ravindra Jadeja following masterful ton in Rajkot

Jasprit Bumrah adopts new technique at the nets

The star Indian pacer took his time to warm himself up before bowling at full tilt. In such cold conditions, injuries could surface at any moment if the body isn’t sufficiently warmed up. The experienced campaigner bowled with a short run-up before getting into his elements.

However, what was very interesting was Bumrah’s technique when he batted at the nets. The 30-year-old crouched lower than normal during his stance and faced batting coach Vikram Rathore’s throwdowns.  “I am working to keep out the balls that really keep low,” he said. The pitch is expected to be a slow turner with uneven bounce. Bumrah was getting himself ready to face deliveries that could keep low in the match.

Also Read: IND vs ENG pitch preview: Dharamshala to feature unique pitch for fifth Test

The Indian team management had organised a last team dinner at the team hotel before the final Test. The players and their family members are generally invited on these occasions.