Jadeja ready to step up his game

Melbourne: A more articulate person would have waxed lyrical on R Ashwin. After all he was Ravindra Jadeja’s long-time partner-in-crime, plotting the downfall of many a visiting batter.

The departure of Ashwin marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, especially for those who understood the value of the iconic partnership he shared with Jadeja. Together, they were architects of countless victories, claiming wickets in tandem and complementing each other with their contrasting bowling styles.

While Ashwin constantly evolved, mastering variations to outwit batters, Jadeja thrived on his discipline and unwavering consistency. Jadeja and Ashwin featured in 58 Tests together and claimed 587 wickets between them. India won 40 matches whenever they played together, taking a whopping 455 wickets in those wins. At home, their domination was complete -- 515 wickets in 49 Tests. 

Statistically, Ashwin and Jadeja comfortably outplay Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh (see the box) but comparing eras is a dangerous exercise. Admittedly, the pitches were much better and batters were more proficient in handling spin bowling in the Kumble-Harbhajan era.  

So how does Jadeja feel without his partner-in-crime?

For Jadeja, losing Ashwin isn’t just about a team-mate but an “on-field mentor.”

Speaking about the camaraderie they shared, he said, “We have been passing messages to each other as bowling partners for so many years on the ground -- what the match situation is, what shots the batters are trying to play, how we can plan against that. So a lot of things I will miss.”

However, ever the pragmatist, Jadeja added, “There’s a replacement for everyone. We must move on.”

“I feel it is also a good opportunity for whichever youngster comes into the team and plays for India and to prove himself at this level,” he adds.

So how does his role change going forward as the senior most spinner?

With Ashwin gone, Jadeja now shoulders the responsibility of being India’s senior spinner. He acknowledges the shift, particularly in home conditions where spinners take centre stage.

“If we are playing in India, I would definitely say that there will be more responsibility on me,” he notes.

It’s this clarity and simplicity -- both in personality and approach -- that defines Jadeja. While Ashwin was the meticulous tactician, Jadeja brought a grounded, no-nonsense outlook to the game, a trait mirrored in his bowling.

“In India, when we play, the role of the spinners will be more,” he points out. “Here (in countries like Australia), the role of the spinners is a supporting role. You don’t get a lot of help for the spinners. Bowl in one area, line and length, set good fields and bowl. Here, I don’t think there is anything about a lot of responsibility, like in the last match whatever my role was, most likely it will be the same in this match too, not a lot of change here.”

But in overseas conditions, Jadeja notes his role remains largely supportive -- keeping things tight, bowling long spells, and creating pressure.

While his bowling in Brisbane wasn’t as impactful as the team would have hoped, his crucial 77 with the bat underlined his all-round value. With India’s batting lineup underperforming, Jadeja’s contributions with the bat have become increasingly important.

As India move forward in the series, Jadeja’s ability to balance both his primary and secondary roles will be vital. It’s a challenge he seems ready to embrace, much like he has done throughout his career -- quietly, effectively and with minimal fuss.