India’s star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja stated a clarification after England skipper Ben Stokes appeared visibly annoyed with him on Day 2 of the second Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Thursday, July 3. Stokes repeatedly voiced his concerns to the umpires over Jadeja allegedly running down the middle of the pitch.
Jadeja, however, downplayed the matter, saying if he did run on the pitch, it was purely accidental and only happened once or twice. India had a dominant outing on Day 2, building on their overnight total of 310/5 to post a massive 587 in the first innings. Captain Shubman Gill was the standout performer with a career-best 269, while Jadeja added a valuable 89.
In response, England ended the day at 77/3 after 20 overs. During the post-match press conference, Ravindra Jadeja was asked about Ben Stokes’ displeasure during their time on the field. The 36-year-old addressed the incident, speaking to the media (as quoted by ESPNcricinfo):
“He [Stokes] felt I was making rough for myself. The fast bowlers were doing it anyway. I don’t need to do that. He was repeatedly telling the umpire that I am running on the wicket. I had no such intention. It might have happened once or twice by mistake, but I didn’t mean to.”
“Kuldeep Always Delivers When Given a Chance” – Jadeja Backs Spinner
India’s team selection for the Edgbaston Test sparked significant discussion right after the toss on Day 1. The decision to rest premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah drew attention, while the inclusion of all-rounder Washington Sundar ahead of left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav also raised eyebrows.
When questioned about Kuldeep’s omission from the playing XI once more, Ravindra Jadeja responded:
“Whenever Kuldeep Yadav gets an opportunity, he’ll do well — he’s a wicket-taker. I spend time with him, but whenever we go out, we never discuss cricket. A player should always focus on controlling the controllables.”
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