New Delhi, Oct 8 (NationPress) Former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel praised Ravindra Jadeja for his exceptional all-round performance during the recently finished first Test against the West Indies, where the Shubman Gill-led team delivered an innings defeat to the visitors at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

In an interview with JioStar, Patel highlighted India's commanding display in the first Test, emphasizing contributions from pivotal players like Jadeja’s remarkable all-round capabilities and KL Rahul's solid opening innings. He also shared insights on selection strategies for the upcoming second Test.

Jadeja's outstanding contributions with both bat and ball drew acclaim from all quarters as he scored an unbeaten century in the first innings and followed it up with a four-wicket haul in the second innings, leading to the Windies' defeat by an innings and 140 runs. Regarding Jadeja's recent batting form, Patel noted:

“It’s been phenomenal to observe Jadeja’s batting style. Much of this can be attributed to the responsibility he has embraced since taking on the vice-captaincy. Even prior to that, the Indian management showed confidence in him, encouraging him to assume responsibility and adapt his batting position flexibly, whether at five, six, or seven. When the dressing room expresses this trust, it transforms your mindset. While he is primarily recognized as an all-rounder with wicket-taking capabilities, his batting contributions have become indispensable. His best innings recently was the resilient draw against England, where he displayed exceptional poise under pressure. In this Test match, his positive footwork and ability to remain not out without losing his wicket were crucial.”

Describing him as India’s ‘greatest all-rounder’, the former cricketer further stated:

“Jadeja is undeniably India’s finest all-rounder. With close to 4,000 runs and nearing 335 wickets, I anticipate he will exceed 400 wickets and 4,000 runs before his career concludes, marking a monumental achievement. On the global platform, he currently holds the title of number one all-rounder; there’s no doubt about it. While names like Ben Stokes, Pat Cummins, and Shakib Al Hasan are mentioned, Jadeja is significantly ahead. His remarkable consistency as both a bowler and batter across varying conditions distinguishes him. It’s not merely isolated brilliance; it’s sustained performance that cements his status as the world’s premier all-rounder today.”

Expounding on India’s impressive performance in the first Test against the West Indies, Patel remarked:

“India’s primary takeaway from the first Test was that they did not play on a rank turner, which has been rare since the 2016 England series. It was refreshing to witness such a clinical all-round display. Yes, the West Indies may not be the strongest team currently, but from India’s perspective, executing plans and backing skills is essential. The West Indian bowlers did pose a challenge with the new ball early on, yet India clearly established their superiority in this Test.”

KL Rahul also demonstrated excellent form as he was the first among the Indian batters to secure a century. He set the stage for the Indian batting lineup before Jadeja and Dhruv Jurel contributed their respective tons to propel the team to a commanding total.

Regarding Rahul’s leadership and consistency as an opening batter in Test cricket, Patel commented:

“KL Rahul is flourishing under pressure. With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired, the responsibility has shifted to Rahul, one of the senior batters, to rise and perform in challenging conditions. We are aware of his skill set. He adeptly lets the ball approach him against spinners and utilizes his footwork remarkably well. This technique suits him perfectly. The key now is his ability to find rhythm, which he has mentioned himself. He takes time initially, evaluates the bowlers and the field, and then chooses the right moments to attack. Presently, he averages around 36 in Test cricket, but given his talent, he is a vastly superior batsman than the statistics indicate. It’s heartening to see him maintain consistency this year.”

He also shared his views on Kuldeep Yadav’s performance in the first Test, where he took two wickets in each innings in Ahmedabad.

“Kuldeep Yadav’s performance was commendable. The challenge isn’t solely the opposition; it’s often about regaining rhythm. From my conversations with Kuldeep, I know he emphasizes how the ball exits his hand. When that release is smooth, it doesn’t matter if it’s a red or white ball. In this match, particularly in the second innings against Roston Chase, his setup was exceptional. Employing three wrist spinners and mixing in the googly demonstrated he is in command of his bowling. There were hardly any loose deliveries. That level of consistency indicates he’s firmly in control of his craft.”

With the first Test victory behind them, all eyes now turn to the second Test, commencing on October 10 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Discussing India’s selection strategy ahead of the second Test against the West Indies, Patel remarked:

“It’s a complex situation. Jasprit Bumrah is resting from the ODI series against Australia, but I expect him to be present in the second Test. Mohammad Siraj is headed to Australia for the ODIs, so Nitish Kumar Reddy is likely to replace him and may also be considered for the South Africa series. For the second Test, I’d like to see Nitish utilized more as both a batter and bowler. On Day 3 of the last Test, he had a chance to bowl a few overs but didn’t get sufficient opportunity. That’s an avenue India could explore. Regarding Devdutt Padikkal, considering the current batting lineup and Sai Sudharsan’s role at number three, Padikkal may have to wait for his moment. Sai Sudharsan must seize the opportunity when it arises.”

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