Top 5 bowling spells by Ravindra Jadeja in Tests
Ravindra Jadeja was nicknamed ‘Rockstar’ by Shane Warne after his stellar performances in the inaugural edition of the IPL in 2008. After that, a brilliant Ranji season helped him earn his maiden ODI cap. But it was only in 2012/13 season when he made his Test debut.
Also Read: Top 5 orthodox left-arm spinners of all time
Jadeja's main strength has always been his control and accuracy. The left-armer's ability to extract turn on even lifeless pitches has helped him established himself in the Indian Test team. From 35 Tests, he has picked up 165 wickets at an average of 23.73 and strike-rate of 61.2.
With Jadeja turning 29 today (6th December), let us take a look at five of the best spells in his Test career thus far.
#5 5/58 against Australia in Delhi (2013)
In 2013, Australia had toured India for a 4-match Test series for the first time since 2008. The last time India toured Australia in 2011 they were thrashed 4-0, hence there was all talk about extracting revenge. Going into the 4th and final Test, India did have that chance as they were leading the series 3-0.
This was Jadeja’s first full series. After a sedate debut against England in December 2012, the Saurashtra all-rounder hit his straps in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. In the first 3 Tests, he took 17 wickets and scalped out the Aussie skipper 5 times in 6 innings. He largely was the support bowler to Ashwin.
In the first innings of the Delhi Test where the ball turned square from day one, he continued to play the supporting role as he picked up 2/40 as India bowled the visitors out for 262. India were bowled out for 272 with Jadeja scoring 43 (his highest Test score till then).
In the second essay, Jadeja came into his own as he picked up his first five-wicket haul. His 5/58 helped India restrict Australia to 164 and set themselves a target of 154 which they overhauled with ease.
Jadeja for his all-round effort (43, 2/40 and 5/58) was awarded the Man of the Match for the first time in his Test career.