1st Test: Is Jadeja Truly India’s Most Valuable Player After His Heroics Against WI?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ravindra Jadeja scored an unbeaten century in the first Test against West Indies.
- He achieved a three-wicket haul on Day 3 of the Test.
- Mohammad Kaif hailed him as India's Most Valuable Player.
- Jadeja has been consistently performing well both at home and abroad.
- His contributions often go unrecognized despite his significant impact on matches.
New Delhi, Oct 4 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has lauded Ravindra Jadeja for his exceptional all-round skills and impactful presence on the field, emphasizing that the cricketer from Saurashtra often goes unrecognized for his contributions. During the first Test match against West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Jadeja scored an unbeaten century in the first innings, significantly aiding India in gaining a lead over the visitors. He followed this up with a remarkable three-wicket haul in the first session on Day 3, bringing the hosts closer to inflicting an innings defeat on the Windies.
Kaif referred to Jadeja as the ‘Mr. Evergreen’ of Indian cricket, noting his consistent ability to contribute with both bat and ball, regardless of whether the team is playing at home or abroad. In a post on X, he praised the all-rounder’s fielding skills, stating:
“Ravindra Jadeja is Mr. Evergreen of Indian cricket. Players come and go, but he has a lasting impact. He is the No. 1 all-rounder in Test cricket, yet he often doesn’t receive the acknowledgment he deserves. He sometimes flies under the radar. Be it turning or seaming pitches, at home or away, Jadeja consistently finds ways to score runs and take wickets. He is also among the world’s best fielders. Undoubtedly, he is India’s Most Valuable Player.”
The Indian team, comprising both bowlers and batters, enjoyed a commanding performance against West Indies in the first Test in Ahmedabad, dismissing the visitors on Day 1 before taking to bat. Although Jadeja did not take any wickets in the first innings, he proved his worth when it was India’s turn to bat.
Following centuries from KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel, Jadeja scored his second century of the year, continuing his impressive form with the bat. Notably, the 36-year-old also scored a brilliant century against England during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, helping the Indian side to a draw in the fourth Test.
The Indian vice-captain remained unbeaten in the first innings against the Windies, scoring 104 runs off 176 balls, making him the team’s second-highest run-scorer after wicketkeeper batter Jurel.
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