Ravindra Jadeja Achieves Milestone Despite India's Narrow Defeat at Lord's
Jadeja's Remarkable Achievement
London [UK], July 14: All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja showcased an impressive performance at Lord's, marking a significant milestone by surpassing 7,000 international runs. This achievement places him alongside cricket legends such as Rishabh Pant, Sourav Ganguly, MS Dhoni, and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi.
A Stellar Performance
Despite his individual brilliance, which included two centuries at the iconic venue, Jadeja was unable to celebrate his success with his signature sword gesture as India fell short by 22 runs in a match that could have been one of their finest overseas victories.
Statistical Highlights
In his 361 international matches, Jadeja has accumulated 7,018 runs at an average of 33.41, featuring four centuries and 39 fifties across 302 innings, with a top score of 175*. In the Test format, he has scored 3,697 runs from 83 matches at an average of 36.97, including four centuries and 26 fifties, with his highest score also being 175*.
Consistent Performance in the Series
During the ongoing series, Jadeja has been in exceptional form, amassing 327 runs in six innings at an impressive average of 109.00, including four fifties, with a best score of 89. He ranks as the fifth-highest run-scorer in the series thus far.
Joining Elite Company
Jadeja has now joined the ranks of Pant and Ganguly as one of the few players to achieve four or more consecutive fifty-plus scores in England. He is also among the select few Indians, alongside Vinoo Mankad, to have scored fifty-plus runs in both innings at Lord's.
Historic Comparisons
He has matched the feats of MAK Pataudi and MS Dhoni, having multiple instances of twin fifty-plus scores in SENA Tests while batting at number six or lower. Additionally, Jadeja has surpassed VVS Laxman to record his 29th fifty-plus score in this batting position, placing him third among Indians, behind Kapil Dev and MS Dhoni.
Match Summary
In the match, England won the toss and opted to bat first, initially struggling at 44/2. However, a solid partnership between Ollie Pope and Joe Root, along with a late surge from Brydon Carse and Jamie Smith, propelled England to a total of 387. Jasprit Bumrah was the standout bowler for India, taking 5 wickets for 74 runs.
India's Response
In their second innings, India faced early setbacks but recovered through partnerships involving Karun Nair and KL Rahul, with Jadeja contributing a crucial 72 runs. Ultimately, both teams ended up with scores of 387, leading to a tense finish.
Final Moments
In England's second innings, India maintained pressure, with Sundar's exceptional bowling leading to England's collapse for 192 runs. Chasing 193, India found themselves in trouble at 82/7, but Jadeja's resilience kept hopes alive until the team was bowled out for 170. India now trails 1-2 in the series, with Stokes earning the 'Player of the Match' award for his all-round performance.