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Ravindra Jadeja is undeniably one of the finest all-rounders in the history of Indian Test cricket. The 34-year-old currently leads the ICC Men’s Test ranking for all-rounders by a substantial margin, boasting an impressive 85-point lead over the second-ranked player, Ravichandran Ashwin (370).
Jadeja was pivotal in India’s World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 campaign. Throughout 13 Tests, his contributions were nothing short of remarkable. With the ball, the left-hander claimed 47 wickets at an exceptional average of 23.68, showcasing his ability to trouble the opposition consistently. His bowling performances included three five-wicket hauls, with his best figures being an astounding 7/42.
Not only did Jadeja excel with the ball, but he also made significant contributions with the bat. He amassed 721 runs at an average of 36.05, a testament to his ability to provide valuable runs when needed. His batting heroism was further highlighted by two centuries and three half-centuries during this period.
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However, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra feels that Jadeja is not only the best ‘Indian’ but the world’s best all-rounder in red-ball cricket.
‘Not only India’s but the world’s best all-rounder’: Aakash Chopra on Ravindra Jadeja
Aakash compared Jadeja with the English all-rounder Ben Stokes, who is widely recognized as one of the premier all-rounders in Test cricket. The former Indian batter emphasized that the Navagam-born cricketer’s exceptional bowling skills are a significant factor that elevates him as one of the preeminent all-rounders in the contemporary red leather game.
“Ravindra Jadeja presents a wonderful package. He bats at number seven and guarantees you 10 overs with the ball [in one-day cricket]. In Tests, he is not only India’s but the world’s best all-rounder, better than Ben Stokes because Stokes doesn’t bowl. Jadeja wins you games match after match. He is an unsung hero and definitely the best all-rounder in red ball cricket,” Aakash said while speaking on his YouTube channel.
