Ravindra Jadeja breaks BCCI guidelines during the second Test against England in Birmingham but wins hearts with his commitment. Arriving early at the stadium against BCCI’s SOPs Jadeja aimed to get extra batting practice and ended up forming a crucial 203-run partnership with Shubman Gill. Though his actions violated protocol, his intent to help India bounce back from previous collapses ensured no disciplinary action would follow.
Ravindra Jadeja Breaks BCCI Guidelines, Anchors India to Strong Total in Birmingham
Ravindra Jadeja breaks BCCI guidelines during the second Test match in Birmingham by reaching the stadium independently before his teammates. As per BCCI’s post-Australia tour standard operating procedures (SOPs), all players must travel together via the team bus. However, Jadeja made the solo trip to the ground ahead of time to get extra batting practice a decision that technically broke the rules, but one rooted in commitment and awareness of the match situation.
Despite this breach, no sanctions are expected from the cricket board. Why? Because Jadeja’s decision to violate the SOPs was tactical. India had crumbled twice in their previous Test at Leeds, and with the team reeling at 211/5 on a good batting surface, he recognized the value of adding more runs. He resumed his innings on Day 2 at 41* alongside Shubman Gill with their partnership at 99.
“I felt I should go and bat extra because the ball was still new,” Jadeja explained. “If I can see the new ball off, it would become easier for the rest of the innings.” His foresight paid off. The duo added 203 runs together, with Jadeja contributing a valiant 89 before falling to a snorter from Josh Tongue.
This stand was the turning point in India’s innings, helping them post a total of over 500. Jadeja’s innings gave him the satisfaction of contributing under pressure, especially overseas. “From 210 for 5 to building a big partnership it was a challenge. I took it up, and it gave me confidence as a cricketer,” he stated.
During his knock, Jadeja once again found himself at odds with England captain Ben Stokes, who complained to umpires about him allegedly running down the pitch after playing front-foot strokes. “He felt I was creating rough for myself,” Jadeja said. “I had no such intention. It might’ve happened once or twice, but not deliberately.”
The pitch in Birmingham offered little lateral movement, so creating rough patches becomes crucial for spinners. Jadeja emphasized that India’s bowlers would need discipline and clever field placements to take advantage of the surface. Fortunately, the new ball brought immediate results, with Indian pacers picking up three quick wickets late in the day.
Ravindra Jadeja breaks BCCI guidelines, but in the larger scheme, his move helped stabilize a vulnerable Indian batting lineup. His proactive mindset, vital innings, and continued fight against challenging English conditions underline his value as one of India’s most dependable players. This incident, while against protocol, will likely be overlooked considering the impact it had on India’s position in the match.
Indeed, Ravindra Jadeja breaks BCCI guidelines, but instead of punishment, he earns praise for putting the team’s needs first.
FAQ
Q1. What rule did Ravindra Jadeja break?
A: He violated the BCCI’s SOP by arriving at the ground independently instead of traveling with the team bus.
Q2. Why did he reach the ground early?
A: Jadeja wanted extra batting practice to prepare for the new ball and help avoid another batting collapse.
Q3. Will Jadeja face any disciplinary action?
A: No. His early arrival was seen as a positive intent to help the team, so no action will be taken.
Q4. How did Jadeja perform in the match?
A: He scored 89 runs and built a 203-run partnership with Shubman Gill, helping India cross 500.
Q5. What happened between Jadeja and Ben Stokes?
A: Stokes accused Jadeja of running on the pitch, but Jadeja claimed it was unintentional and denied any wrongdoing.
