Sanjay Manjrekar’s comment, “It’s Jadeja batting, so I better shut up,” has reignited their past feud after Ravindra Jadeja narrowly avoided a potential dismissal in a warm-up game. The incident occurred during India’s match against Bangladesh in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 warm-up game on June 1 at Nassau County Stadium, New York. India won the toss and elected to bat first, with some batsmen performing explosively while others contributed modestly.
When Jadeja joined Hardik Pandya at the crease in the 17th over, India was at 159/4. Jadeja faced his first ball from Tanvir Islam, who bowled a fuller delivery. Jadeja attempted a slog but missed, staying right on the crease line. The wicketkeeper quickly collected the ball and dislodged the stumps, appearing to catch Jadeja short of his ground.
However, camera angles failed to conclusively prove that Jadeja had crossed the line, and he was given not out. Manjrekar, commenting on air, remarked, “It looks out from here, but it’s Jadeja batting, so I better shut up.”
This comment alludes to their fraught history. Manjrekar had previously sparked controversy by calling Jadeja a “bits and pieces” player during the 2019 ODI World Cup, questioning his place in the ODI team.
He had stated, “I am not a big fan of bits and pieces players which Jadeja is at this point of his career in 50-over cricket. In Test matches, he is a pure bowler. But in 50-over cricket, I would rather have a batsman and a spinner.”
Jadeja responded on Twitter, writing, “Still I have played twice the number of matches you have played and I’m still playing. Learn to respect ppl who have achieved. I have heard enough of your verbal diarrhoea.”
Sanjay Manjrekar and Jadeja have a strained relationship
This latest incident adds another chapter to their ongoing tension, highlighting the sometimes contentious relationship between players and commentators. Jadeja’s narrow escape and Manjrekar’s remark serve as a reminder of the scrutiny players face, both on the field and off.
As Jadeja continues to prove his worth in various formats, the exchanges between him and Manjrekar underscore the dynamic nature of cricket commentary and player relationships.
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