IPL 2017: Brad Hodge confirms Ravindra Jadeja's availability for Gujarat Lions' next match
What’s the story?
After losing their first two games, Gujarat Lions have something to cheer about as they are set to welcome their spin bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja for their next match. Speaking to the official broadcasters on the sidelines of the Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Gujarat Lions match, Lions’ head coach Brad Hodge confirmed that the left arm spinner will be available for their next match.
However, he was not sure about the return of the other member in the Lions’ injury list, Dwayne Bravo.
“I am not sure about Dwayne Bravo but Jadeja is set to be back for the next game. We missed him for the last two matches. He is a dynamic player and is in great touch. We miss him dearly at the moment,” Hodge said.
In case you didn’t know...
Ravindra Jadeja is one of the few Indian players who were advised a few days rest by the BCCI after a long home season and keeping the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy in mind. It was announced that Jadeja, along with Umesh Yadav, is advised to take rest for two weeks before taking part in the IPL.
Details
Gujarat Lions are off to a terrible start in the tenth edition of the IPL as they were thrashed by Kolkata Knight Riders and the defending champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in their first two matches.
They have managed to pick up just a wicket in those two matches and without a doubt, they are lacking experience in the bowling line-up. The team management are going with their overseas opening batsmen as their four overseas players ahead of someone like James Faulkner or Andrew Tye, who can give the team some much-needed edge with the bowl.
With Jadeja set to play the next match, the team management will be relieved to welcome back the world no.1 Test bowler. In the post-match presentation, skipper Suresh Raina also hinted that Jadeja might be available to face Pune.
What’s next?
Gujarat Lions take on Rising Pune Supergiant at the SCA stadium in Rajkot on the 14th of this month. The Suresh Raina-led team will be desperate to put on a decent performance and register their first win in the tournament.
Author’s Take?
Jadeja coming back into the Gujarat Lions playing XI will be a much-needed relief for both the fans and the team management as he is someone who is very experienced and has the ability to lead a bowling attack.