IND vs ENG: Why Cheteshwar Pujara says don’t criticise Ravindra Jadeja but celebrate him
As the India vs England Test series intensifies, every move by the players is under microscopic scrutiny. One name that has sparked debate among fans and analysts alike is that of India’s seasoned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While some question his recent performances, veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has come to Jadeja’s defence, urging the cricketing world to shift its focus from criticism to appreciation.
But why does Pujara, known for his calm demeanor and cricketing wisdom, believe Jadeja deserves celebration instead of doubt? Let’s explore the full story behind his support and why Jadeja remains one of India’s most valuable Test players.
A Match-Winner Under the Scanner
In the ongoing IND vs ENG Test series, Ravindra Jadeja has had a mixed run. While he has shown flashes of brilliance with both bat and ball, a few underwhelming performances led to murmurs questioning his place in the team, especially in a format as demanding as Test cricket.
Critics pointed out that Jadeja’s batting hasn’t been as impactful in certain innings, and his bowling returns lacked the consistency of past seasons. However, these comments failed to acknowledge the larger picture of Jadeja’s contribution to Indian cricket over the years.
Pujara’s Perspective: Experience Over Episodes
Cheteshwar Pujara, speaking on a sports panel recently, addressed the growing online criticism against Jadeja. He dismissed the negativity, stating:
“We must look at what Jadeja has done for India over the last ten years. A few quiet matches don’t erase the fact that he’s one of the best all-rounders in the world. He deserves our respect, not criticism.”
Pujara’s viewpoint stems not from friendship or emotion but from experience, logic, and appreciation of skill and longevity. Having shared the dressing room with Jadeja for years, Pujara understands the value the all-rounder brings – especially in the longest format.
Jadeja’s Dual Role: The Balance India Needs
One of Jadeja’s biggest strengths is his versatility. He’s not just a bowler who can bat or a batter who can bowl – he is a rare cricketer who excels in both departments. His ability to hold an end tight with the ball, break partnerships, and then come out to bat and build innings under pressure gives India a tactical edge.
He plays the role of a genuine all-rounder, which allows India the luxury of fielding an extra bowler or batter, depending on the conditions. In a tight five-match series against a team like England, such flexibility is priceless.
Recent Contributions Worth Noting
While some may be quick to point fingers, Jadeja’s recent record paints a clearer picture. In the last 12 months, he has:
- Taken key wickets on flat Indian pitches where spinners often struggle.
- Scored vital middle-order runs, including fifties when top-order collapses occurred.
- Maintained a brilliant economy rate, building pressure even when wickets didn’t come.
- Continued to field with energy and sharpness, saving crucial runs in tight games.
Against England in the current series, Jadeja may not have produced a five-wicket haul or a hundred yet, but his presence has ensured India never looked imbalanced, even with injuries and team shuffles.
Fielding: The Silent Game-Changer
One aspect often ignored in match discussions is Jadeja’s fielding. He is arguably the best fielder India has produced, and his presence alone lifts the energy on the field. Sharp stops, direct hits, and acrobatic catches are part of his routine.
These efforts might not reflect on scoreboards like centuries or five-fors, but they impact the game in subtle, significant ways. How many times have we seen a run-out from Jadeja shift the momentum India’s way?
The Social Media Divide
In the age of instant opinions, even world-class players are not immune to backlash. Jadeja has been subject to criticism on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), especially when expectations run high. But interestingly, Pujara’s public support has sparked a wave of counter-narratives, with many fans agreeing that the bar for judging Jadeja is often unfairly high.
A fan commented:
“We expect Jadeja to take wickets, score fifties, and pull off run-outs in every game. That’s not fair. He’s human, not a machine.”
Such sentiments echo Pujara’s call for contextual appreciation over emotional judgment.
Looking Ahead: More to Come from Jaddu
With a few matches left in the IND vs ENG series, there’s a strong chance that Ravindra Jadeja will once again rise to the occasion. His track record shows he thrives under pressure, especially when the noise outside grows louder.
The pitches are expected to assist spin as the series progresses, and Jadeja’s role with the ball will become even more critical. Add to that India’s fragile middle order, and his contributions with the bat could prove pivotal.
Conclusion: Time to Applaud, Not Attack
Cheteshwar Pujara’s words act as a timely reminder for fans, analysts, and critics:
“Ravindra Jadeja is not just a player; he’s a match-winner, a game-changer, and a symbol of consistency.”
It’s easy to focus on a couple of quiet innings or missed chances. But real cricket wisdom lies in evaluating a player’s overall impact, longevity, and match presence. On those counts, Jadeja remains among the best in the world.
So, the next time you’re tempted to criticise, remember Pujara’s words — don’t criticise Jadeja, celebrate him.
