India’s star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja surpasses Ishant Sharma to become India’s fifth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. Jadeja achieved this milestone on Day 1 of the Test match against New Zealand played in Mumbai. He not only went past Ishant but also surpassed former pacer Zaheer Khan, who had taken 311 wickets. Jadeja’s 312th wicket was New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips, and he further showcased his skill by dismissing Tom Blundell and Will Young.
Jadeja’s bowling was on full display shortly after the tea break, where he managed to bag a five-wicket haul. His fifer marked another impressive achievement in a career that has made him one of the most valuable players in India’s Test squad. The 35-year-old has become a crucial part of India’s spin setup, sharing the load with fellow spinner Ravichandran Ashwin over the years. Jadeja’s efforts have often been very important in India’s home successes, especially on spin-friendly pitches.
Ravindra Jadeja Creates History Becomes One of Only Three Indian players with 3,000 runs and 300 wickets in Test cricket
In addition to being India’s fifth-highest wicket-taker, Jadeja is also one of only three Indian players to have scored 3,000 runs and taken 300 wickets in Test cricket—a feat he shares with Kapil Dev and Ashwin. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball makes him a vital player for the Indian team, adding balance to the side. Since his Test debut in 2012, he has taken 231 of his wickets at an impressive bowling average of 21.78 and has scored four centuries with a batting average of 35.72.
Ravindra Jadeja bowled 22 consecutive overs in Mumbai’s heat and humidity, taking his 14th five-wicket haul to help India bowl out New Zealand for 235. Jadeja’s persistence paid off as he dismissed key players like Glenn Phillips, Ish Sodhi, and Matt Henry, showing both patience and skill on a pitch that began to show signs of wear.
However, India’s response faltered late in the day. They lost three wickets in the last two overs, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, who fell to a reverse sweep, and Virat Kohli, run out in a mix-up. India ended the day at 86/4, giving up the advantage they had worked hard to secure. India will be looking to recover on Day 2.
Also read: MS Dhoni Appreciates Aggressive, Result-Oriented Approach Of Modern day Test Cricket
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