There has been a lot of talk around India and their recent 0-3 drubbing against New Zealand at home. That was their first-ever Test series loss against New Zealand in India and their first Test series loss at home in 12 years.
However, Rohit Sharma and co have received the backing of Ajay Jadeja. He believes that sometimes a wake-up call is required. He also felt for skipper Rohit who has been criticized quite a bit.
“You need a wake-up call sometimes. We won the (T20) World Cup this year, we’re the best team, with the best captain, but suddenly Rohit Sharma is criticized for not moving well. I feel for him,” Ajay Jadeja was quoted saying in Jaipur during Sportstar’s Sports Conclave.
Moreover, the former India cricketer has backed the Indian team to do well in Australia. In fact, he thinks India can win the series down under, given their experience. Now, with the series loss against New Zealand at home, the expectations have been reduced and India will have nothing to lose.
“We may not reach the World Test Championship final, but I believe we can secure the series win. Our team has more experience from multiple tours Down Under, unlike earlier eras when players only visited every eight years. Now, with nothing to lose. We’ll be a dangerous side,” Jadeja explained.
Ajay Jadeja all praise for Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah
India have won both of their last two series’ down under. They beat Australia 2-1 in 2018-19 and again by the same margin in 2020-21. Rishabh Pant was one of the central figures in the batting department on both tours. The left-handed wicket-keeper batter has 624 runs at an average of 62.40. The 53-year-old called Pant ‘one of the best’ and does not want him to curb his natural game.
“As long as he’s playing, he’ll be one of India’s best. The challenge lies in not stifling his creativity. Once you try to control such players, their brilliance diminishes. It’s a double-edged sword,” the former India cricketer added.
Another player Jadeja spoke highly about was Jasprit Bumrah. The ace India fast bowler has returned with 32 wickets in seven Tests (average of 21.25) in Australia and has led India’s pace attack on both tours.
“At that stage, it’s about training your mind, not just your body. Bumrah is a prime example; despite being advised to change his action as a teenager, he trusted his instincts and persevered. That belief, paired with mental toughness, is remarkable,” the former India cricketer further said.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off on the 22nd of November in Perth. This is the first time in three decades that India and Australia will be playing a five-match Test series.
