Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja brushed aside England assistant coach Jeetan Patel’s upbeat assertion that the hosts could still win the Edgbaston Test, even after a tough second day. Jadeja chose not to dwell much on Patel’s remark, emphasizing instead that results are determined on the field, not through predictions.
India completely dominated Day 2 of the second Test at Edgbaston on Thursday, July 3, delivering a commanding all-round performance. Resuming at 310/5, India posted 587 as skipper Shubman Gill scored a career-best 269 and Jadeja contributed a solid 89. England, in reply, ended the day in deep trouble at 77 for 3 after 20 overs.
Despite the mounting pressure on the home side, Patel remained hopeful, claiming that England could still turn things around. During the post-day press conference, Ravindra Jadeja was asked about the coach’s comment. Responding with a playful tone, the veteran cricketer remarked (via Revsportz):
“In press conference, you can talk whatever you want to talk. That’s none of my business. But, at the end of the day, you have to go out there and perform and take those 20 wickets. That’s all that matters.”
England Can Still Win the Test, Claims Assistant Coach Jeetan Patel Despite Tough Situation
When questioned earlier about whether he still believed England could pull off a win in the second Test despite their difficult situation, Patel responded (as quoted by The Telegraph):
“Absolutely. I’ve said this multiple times before, even though you all keep laughing at me! We’ll regroup, reflect on how the day went, and plan for tomorrow. The focus now is on resting, getting some sleep, and coming back refreshed.”
“We’ll look for a different route to victory. That’s the strength of this team, the players and their belief. With three full days of cricket left on a quick-scoring pitch, anything is possible.”
“We have two of the greatest batters in the world at the crease now, hopefully they get back in tomorrow and nestle in and cash in on what could be a good day’s cricket,” the former New Zealand off spinner went on to add.
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