(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] In a disappointing start to the five-match Test series against England, the Indian cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, suffered a 28-run defeat in the opening match held in Hyderabad on Sunday. Adding to their woes, the team received another setback with star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s uncertain participation in the upcoming second Test.
Jadeja played a pivotal role in the first Test, emerging as the top scorer for India in the first innings with 87 runs and also contributing significantly with the ball, claiming five wickets in the match. However, his potential absence in the second Test, slated to commence on February 2 in Visakhapatnan, looms large following a hamstring injury sustained during the fourth day of the opening match.
The injury occurred as India pursued a target of 231 runs in the fourth innings with Jadeja experiencing discomfort and pain after being run-out by England captain Ben Stokes, courtesy a precise underarm flick that resulted in a direct hit.
India head coach Rahul Dravid expressed uncertainty regarding Jadeja’s injury status during the post-match press conference, stating, “We’ll see. I honestly haven’t had a chance to speak to the physio as yet. Once I get back, I’ll speak to him and see what it is about.”
Jadeja, aged 35, has undergone scans to assess the extent of his injury, with results expected today. Even if the scans reveal a strain rather than a tear, Jadeja may still require a week’s rest, effectively ruling him out of contention for the Vishakapatnam Test.
In Jadeja’s absence, left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is poised to fill the void. However, Jadeja will be a huge miss, especially considering batting unit’s lackluster performance in the first Test. His prowess with the bat adds another dimension to India’s lineup, making his absence a significant loss for the team’s balance and depth.