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‘Jadeja Now Hunts Wickets Every Ball’: Cheteshwar Pujara Reveals the Mindset Shift That Changed India Star’s Test Career
Cheteshwar Pujara says Ravindra Jadeja has transformed from a defensive red-ball bowler into an attacking wicket-taker ahead of India’s Test series against Sri Lanka.
Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes Ravindra Jadeja has undergone a remarkable transformation in Test cricket, evolving from a bowler focused on containing runs to one who now attacks with the sole aim of taking wickets.
As India prepare for a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka beginning on August 15, Jadeja is set to return to the red-ball setup after missing the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Ahead of his comeback, Pujara highlighted the mental shift that has elevated the veteran all-rounder into one of the world’s premier Test performers.
‘Every Ball Has a Purpose Now’
Speaking on JioStar’s Follow The Blues, Pujara explained how Jadeja’s approach with the ball has changed significantly over the years.
According to the veteran batter, Jadeja previously prioritised keeping the scoring rate under control, especially on pitches that offered little assistance to bowlers. However, he now approaches every delivery with the intention of dismissing the batter.”Earlier, Ravindra Jadeja’s mindset was to avoid conceding too many runs in red-ball cricket. But now he understands his strengths and bowls accordingly.”
Pujara added that Jadeja now consistently targets the stumps, varies his angles, uses the crease more effectively and adjusts his lengths depending on the batter, making him a far more dangerous bowler.”Now he is delivering every ball with the purpose of taking a wicket. That mental shift is very important.”
One of India’s Greatest Modern-Day All-Rounders
Jadeja’s statistics underline the impact of that evolution.
The left-arm spinner has played 89 Test matches, claiming 348 wickets at an impressive average of 25.11. His bowling record includes 15 five-wicket hauls, 17 four-wicket hauls, and three 10-wicket match hauls, with best figures of 7/42.
His contributions with the bat have been equally valuable. Batting primarily in the lower middle order, Jadeja has scored 4,095 Test runs at an average of 38.27, including six centuries and eight half-centuries.
His consistency with both bat and ball has cemented his reputation as one of the finest all-rounders of the modern era.
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Eyes on the 400-Wicket Milestone
The upcoming Test season could prove significant for Jadeja’s career.
Following the Sri Lanka series, India are scheduled to tour New Zealand for two Tests before hosting Australia in a five-match blockbuster series.
Jadeja currently needs 52 more wickets to reach the landmark of 400 Test wickets. If he achieves the feat, he will become only the fifth Indian bowler to enter the elite club.
The experienced all-rounder will also be eager to improve on a relatively quiet previous Test season, during which he picked up 25 wickets in 10 matches at an average of 38.20.
India Look to Climb WTC Standings
Jadeja’s return comes at an important stage of India’s World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.
The team currently occupies fifth place in the standings with four wins and four defeats from nine matches, giving them a Points Percentage (PCT) of 48.15.
With crucial series against Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Australia lined up, India will be aiming to strengthen their position in the race for the next WTC final, and Jadeja’s all-round abilities are expected to play a key role in that mission.
