Ravindra Jadeja's Solo Practice Raises Questions Amidst India's Strong Test Performance

Ravindra Jadeja's pivotal contribution to India's remarkable recovery on Day 2 of the second Test against England extended beyond his impressive 89-run innings and the substantial 203-run partnership with Shubman Gill. The seasoned all-rounder's actions off the field also sparked considerable discussion.

Ravindra Jadeja celebrates a half-century against England, highlighting his crucial role in the match.

Jadeja chose to circumvent the BCCI’s Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) by arriving at the ground ahead of the team to engage in additional batting practice. He later defended his decision, citing the challenging English pitch conditions as justification for the extra preparation.

Since the tour of Australia, the BCCI has stipulated that all players must travel together on the team bus. Jadeja's decision to deviate from this protocol has ignited debate.

"I felt that I should go and bat extra because the ball was still new," Jadeja explained during the post-day press briefing. "If I can see the new ball off, it would become easy for the rest of the innings. In England, you never feel set; the ball can swing anytime and take your edge."

Having resumed his innings at 41, Jadeja capitalized on the additional practice, providing valuable support to Gill, whose magnificent 269 formed the cornerstone of India's imposing total of 587.

While Jadeja ultimately fell short of a century, he expressed satisfaction with his ability to rise to the occasion. "When the team is in trouble abroad and you contribute with the bat, it feels great. It gives you confidence as a cricketer," he stated.

The day wasn't without controversy. England's captain, Ben Stokes, accused Jadeja of deliberately roughing up the pitch. "He feels I was making it rough. But why would I? I won’t even bowl there," Jadeja retorted. "He kept telling the umpire, but it wasn’t my intention."

With England struggling at 77 for 3 in their response, Jadeja hinted at further challenges to come: "If we get a chance tomorrow, we’ll try to bowl in good areas and press on."