The upcoming 2025 IPL edition will see a Mega Auction with all ten franchises undergoing a significant restructuring. The recent announcement of the retention lists has been a talking point amongst several cricket fanatics, as there has been a mix of both expected and unexpected names getting released.

As it implies, there have been many critics who have got a mixed bag of opinions pertaining to the retained names across all the teams, be it relating to the amount paid for its retention or some shocking releases. That said, here are the five worst retentions made by the teams before the 2025 IPL Mega Auction, based on their performance and price point.

Shimron Hetmyer (Rajasthan Royals- INR 11 Crore)

Shimron Hetmyer, the Caribbean swashbuckling bat for the Rajasthan Royals, made another, despite having international talents like Jos Buttler, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Trent Boult on their roster. This is one of the most perplexing retentions by the inaugural champions, considering whether his INR 11 Crore price tag justifies his cricketing abilities.

With colossal options and no Right-to-Match cards available now, it is one of the worst retentions that hasn't given its reasons for staying with the team. In his 2024 stint, he has made just 113 runs in 12 matches, averaging a mediocre 23. 

Dhruv Jurel (Rajasthan Royals- INR 14 Crore)

The Rajasthan Royals took an unusual yet brave step by keeping uncapped wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel for a whopping INR 14 crore ahead of the IPL 2025. Just to Shimron Hetmyer's retention dilemma, the Royals had a plethora of seasoned and superior combatants at their disposal.

Various critics have questioned Jurel's retention. Though the batter has played an essential part in fortifying his middle order, his price does not appear justified. He has scored just 195 runs in 14 matches for the Rajasthan Royals in 2024, with an average of more than 25.  

Mayank Yadav (Lucknow Super Giants- INR 11 Crore)

Mayank Yadav demonstrated his abilities in his first IPL season, becoming a budding star with Lucknow SuperGiants. So, given his quick bowling, the SuperGiants kept him for a staggering INR 11 crore. Typically, if a team pays such a large sum to a fast bowler, it expects him to lead the bowling department. Mayank has all the potential to spearhead LSG's pace battery, but as a hit-the-deck bowler, he is prone to back injuries.

Also, he recently returned from an injury that kept him out of the IPL 2024. With so many possibilities in the big auction pool, the Super Giants might have dragged him back at a lesser price. This deal appears to be motivated by desperation and might have been done more effectively. In his 2024 stint, he has scalped seven wickets at an impeccable economy of less than seven in just four appearances.

Also Read: IPL 2025: Top 5 Best Retentions during the 2025 IPL Mega Auction

Ravindra Jadeja (Chennai Super Kings- INR 18 Crore)

Ravindra Jadeja, the dependable Indian all-rounder, has been a part of every aspect of the Chennai Super Kings' journey, demonstrating his importance to the Yellove Army. However, given his age and athleticism, his INR 18 crore price tag is quite surprising. Jadeja, a true all-rounder, has recently been sidelined by a problematic knee, which the Super Kings must have known about.

The franchise could have paid Jadeja less, conserving money for the big auction or investing in other youngsters or other promising players on the roster, especially with the likes of Rachin Ravindran, Maheesh Theekshana and Devon Conway. During his 2024 edition spell, he played 14 matches, scoring 267 runs and taking eight wickets.

Yash Dayal (Royal Challengers Bengaluru- INR 5 Crore)

Yash Dayal, the fast-paced player, has been retained by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 5 crore ahead of the 2025 IPL season. This move created news, especially since the club released its quick stalwart, Mohammed Siraj, making him one of the franchise's mediocre retention choices. The left-arm pacer has experienced a roller coaster ride in the cash-rich league thus far.

Many people believed his career would never recover after Rinku Singh smacked him for five consecutive sixes in the IPL 2023. However, RCB's trust in the left-arm bowler throughout the 2024 season, notably in a vital match against Chennai Super Kings, led to his breakout moment. In the 2024 edition, he took 15 wickets in 14 games. 

As we speak, the third test between India and New Zealand is on a knife edge, with the home side in dire straits. In their pursuit of 147, India made a disastrous start to the run chase and lost their top order in no time with 29 on the board. Pant is the only batter who is now holding the Indian innings together by a thread. He is currently unbeaten on 53* and his side hopes that he stays till the end to help India avoid an embarrassing series whitewash at home. 

Here is how the drama unfolded on day three

New Zealand could only manage to add three more runs to their overnight total of 171-9 before being dismissed on 174 courtesy of Jadeja’s final wicket. This meant that India was required to chase down a target of 147, which by no means was a challenging ask. But with the pitch turning square, very few could anticipate the carnage that was to come in the Indian innings. 

Rohit Sharma kicked off the run chase with a few boundaries but he turned out to be the first Indian victim to fall and was removed by Henry during the third over. That wicket triggered a procession of wickets for team India as they went from 13-1 to 29-5 in virtually a blink of an eye. The spin duo of Ajaz and Phillips took over and accounted for the bulk of the damage. 

The Indian batters struggled against the spinning ball and failed to pick the natural variations which ultimately proved to be their downfall. Ajaz Patel once again proved to be a potent threat for the home side claiming figures of 4-43 while Phillips also managed to bag an all-important wicket of Jaiswal on five. Ajaz ran through the defenses of Gill, Kohli, Jadeja, and Sarfarz. Rohit and Pant are the only two batters to register double-figure scores. 

Apart from quality spin bowling, the shot selection of some of our batters were also questionable. Gill opting to leave a straighter ball and Sarafaz holing out to Ravindra at deep square leg to a full toss were some of the brain-fade moments our batters faced in the middle.

Pant shines with the bat and keeps India afloat 

In the face of an acute adversary, one man defied all odds. The flamboyant wicket-keeper batsman Rishab Pant played with a lot of purpose to give India a fighting chance of earning a consolidation win. On a deteriorating Wankhede pitch, Pant played some swashbuckling shots to entertain the home crowd. The 27-year-old did not hesitate to use his feet against the tossed-up deliveries and deployed his sweep shots precisely on numerous instances at a time when batters have largely struggled to get their feet moving. 

He teamed up with Jadeja to help India stitch a valuable 42 runs for the sixth wicket to get India close to the target. Unfortunately, the partnership was broken by Ajaz who once again came on top to have Jadeja caught at short leg. But Pant remained resolute and has raced to 53 in only 50 balls.

At the time of writing, the game was set up nicely at lunch on day three with India at 92-6 still requiring 55 more runs to avoid a rare clean sweep at home. Pant is a ray of hope for the Men In Blue who have their backs placed firmly on the wall. He will have to grind harder for the next few overs to see India home by the end of the second session.

Ravindra Jadeja's journey in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is a tale of consistency and impact, marked by his evolution into a premier all-rounder and a core player for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Starting his IPL career with Rajasthan Royals, Jadeja has come a long way, cementing his place in CSK since 2013 and becoming a vital cog in their lineup. His influence on the field is undeniable—whether it's with the bat, ball, or his electrifying fielding, Jadeja’s all-round abilities have made him a match-winner and a fan favorite. His contributions have been instrumental in CSK's success over the years, and he has often delivered in crucial moments, making him a go-to player for captain MS Dhoni.

As a bowler, Jadeja’s stats showcase his effectiveness, particularly in the middle overs, where he has been exceptionally reliable. Across 211 IPL matches, Jadeja has bowled 638.1 overs, conceding 4,864 runs and claiming 160 wickets with an impressive economy of 7.62. In the middle overs alone, he has bowled 529.5 overs, taken 125 wickets at an economy of 7.41, and maintained a strong strike rate of 25.4. His ability to contain runs and take crucial wickets during these key phases of the game has made him invaluable for CSK, effectively building pressure on the opposition. Jadeja’s consistency, coupled with his knack for breaking partnerships, has solidified his reputation as one of the most dependable spinners in IPL history.

See Also: Should SRH Retain Klaasen for ₹23 Crore? A Worthy Investment?

Does Jadeja’s Performance Justify an ₹18 Crore Retention?

Ravindra Jadeja, often hailed as one of the most versatile all-rounders in modern cricket, has had a storied career that encapsulates the essence of adaptability and skill. His recent performance statistics provide a window into his contributions to the Indian cricket team. With 30 innings under his belt, Jadeja has taken 28 wickets at an average of 27.11 and an economy rate of 7.51. While these figures might not place him at the very top of the bowling charts, they tell a story of consistent performance, especially in high-pressure situations.

In the realm of limited-overs cricket, Jadeja has evolved into a key player for India, not just with the ball but also as a lower-order batsman. His ability to turn games around with crucial partnerships and aggressive batting has made him a valuable asset. Despite a strike rate of 21.64 and 39 fours and 32 sixes, his batting is often overshadowed by his bowling prowess. Nonetheless, his all-round capabilities provide the Indian team with a balanced attack, allowing for flexibility in both batting and bowling departments.

When analyzing his bowling style, Jadeja stands out for his accuracy and control. With a dot ball percentage of 29.87, he demonstrates an ability to build pressure on opposing batsmen, forcing them into making mistakes. His experience and tactical acumen on the field make him a formidable opponent, capable of breaking partnerships at critical junctures. This attribute is invaluable in T20 and ODI formats, where matches can pivot on single deliveries.

Jadeja's contributions extend beyond mere numbers; they include his fielding prowess, often hailed as one of the best in the world. His athleticism and sharp reflexes add another layer to his all-round capabilities. A match-winner in his own right, Jadeja's presence on the field inspires confidence in his teammates and instills fear in his opponents. His ability to impact games across formats has made him a lynchpin for the Indian cricket team.

Given his track record, the question arises: is Ravindra Jadeja worth ₹18 crore? The answer seems to be an emphatic yes. Jadeja's overall impact on the game—combined with his impressive statistics, leadership qualities, and ability to perform under pressure—justifies his price tag. In a cricketing landscape where all-rounders hold immense value, Jadeja's skills make him an essential component of any team, reinforcing the belief that he is worth every penny of his contract.

See Also: Tony de Zorzi Powers South Africa's Steady March Toward the WTC Finals

As the IPL 2025 retention deadline looms, excitement and suspense are mounting, particularly surrounding Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the five-time champions. The franchise recently sent fans into a frenzy with a mysterious post on social media, suggesting potential hints about their top retention choices. With emojis of a helicopter, sword, star, and rocket, CSK’s post read, “The Ones You Seek is Seeking You!” sparking fans to speculate on the players CSK might retain for the upcoming season.

Fans decode CSK’s hints: Dhoni and Jadeja at the top of predictions

Social media erupted with fan theories, with most readers interpreting the “helicopter” as a clear nod to MS Dhoni, famously associated with his iconic helicopter shot, and the “sword” likely representing Ravindra Jadeja, known for his signature sword-swinging celebration. The “star” and “rocket” emojis have led to further debate, with fans guessing Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matheesha Pathirana, and rising talent Rachin Ravindra might also make the cut.

While CSK has yet to confirm these speculations, sources close to the franchise suggest that retaining Dhoni, their legendary captain, is almost certain. Dhoni, who led the team to multiple titles and an unshakable fanbase, has hinted at continuing his journey in the IPL. In a recent event, he expressed his desire to “enjoy the last few years of cricket” without the intensity of his past commitments, adding, “When you play cricket as a profession, it's hard to enjoy it just like a game… That’s my aim now.”

See Also: Kohli set to lead RCB in IPL 2025: Reports

💛😍🔥🤝✅🌟
💪🧑‍🍳⚡🦁🕸️⚓
🚀🧨🏏🥊🛶🎯
🏓🎤🎩⏳🚁🔍
🛡️⚔️🧸🥝🎠🤞
The Ones You Seek is Seeking You!

Tap the 🔗 - https://t.co/MNwIFDgxBK
and play the #DeadlineDay now! #WhistlePodu #Retentions2025

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) October 29, 2024

Shall we finalize with this ? 😉 pic.twitter.com/1VutWt80zF

— R S கோபி (@PortentVlogger) October 29, 2024

Column wise
1st - Rutu
2nd - Jadeja
3rd - Dube 🤔
4th - Rachin
5th - Thala
6th - Pathirana

— Beast (@Beast__07_) October 29, 2024

Jadeja
Rutu
Pathirana
Dhoni
Rachin

— Heisenberg ☢ (@internetumpire) October 29, 2024

Got It ✨

Jaddu
Rutu
Pathirana
Dhoni
Rachin

It's Correct?

— Aravind (@TVFP2) October 29, 2024

Star Boy - Ruturaj Gaikwad
Cook - Matheesha Pathirana
Helicopter - MS Dhoni
Sword - Ravindra Jadeja

Cracker yaara irukum!?

— Sharon Solomon (@BSharan_6) October 29, 2024

Dhoni’s plan for the upcoming season and CSK’s strategic decisions

The decision to retain Dhoni aligns with the hopes of CSK fans and franchise executives alike. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has voiced full support for Dhoni’s return, and discussions with team owner N. Srinivasan are expected soon to finalize their 2025 IPL squad. Dhoni’s experience, dedication, and leadership skills continue to be invaluable assets for CSK, both on and off the field.

Finalizing the retention list will also likely include young talents like Ruturaj Gaikwad, whose consistency as an opener has made him a fan favorite, and Matheesha Pathirana, a fast bowler with promising potential. Rachin Ravindra is another name circulating due to his impressive performances, making him a desirable choice for CSK’s future.

As anticipation builds, CSK’s fans are eagerly awaiting official confirmation, holding onto the hope that Dhoni will lead their beloved team for yet another season, aiming to bring the elusive IPL title back to Chennai. This blend of seasoned legends and emerging stars could be the ideal formula CSK needs for a powerful 2025 season.

Ravindra Jadeja has had an impressive Test career, showcasing his exceptional all-round skills over the course of 140 matches. With 303 wickets to his name, Jadeja has proven to be one of India's most reliable spinners. His bowling economy of 2.48 reflects his ability to maintain tight control over the game, forcing batters into mistakes. His average of 23.9 is a testament to his consistency and knack for taking key wickets, often breaking crucial partnerships in the middle overs. Jadeja’s adaptability on different surfaces, combined with his precision, has made him a vital asset in both home and away conditions.

Jadeja's strike rate of 57.7 and his balls per wicket ratio of 78.7 illustrate his balance between attack and control. Whether bowling in turning conditions or on flatter tracks, Jadeja has regularly outwitted batsmen with his variations and accuracy. Beyond just his bowling, his fielding and lower-order batting have made him a complete package, often contributing to India’s victories with valuable runs and game-changing moments in the field. His resilience, combined with his ability to perform under pressure, has established him as one of the finest all-rounders in modern Test cricket.

See Also: Can India overcome early new ball struggles in the second test?

From Grit to Glory: Ravindra Jadeja’s Impactful Test Career

Ravindra Jadeja's Test career is a testament to his consistency and adaptability against various international sides, with each team presenting unique challenges. His best performances, in terms of wickets taken, have come against Australia, where he has claimed 89 wickets in 32 innings. His economy rate of 2.34 and average of 19.3 highlight his dominance, and his five five-wicket hauls, including a career-best 7/42, underline his ability to dismantle strong Australian batting lineups. Jadeja's control is reflected in his dot percentage (79.1%), showing how effectively he has kept Australian batsmen under pressure over the years.

Against England, Jadeja has played 37 innings, picking up 70 wickets while maintaining an economy of 2.58. Though his bowling average against England (32.6) is higher compared to Australia, his standout performances, including a best of 7/48, prove his value in pivotal Test series. The dot percentage of 76.4% showcases his ability to tie down English batsmen, even in seam-friendly conditions, reflecting his versatility as a bowler.

His exploits against South Africa are equally impressive, where he has taken 42 wickets in 15 innings at a miserly economy of 2.28. With an average of just 19.1 and a strike rate of 50.4, Jadeja has been a thorn in South Africa's side, consistently taking wickets in crucial moments. His three five-wicket hauls against the Proteas, including a best of 6/138, demonstrate his ability to rise to the occasion against top-quality batting lineups. Notably, his dot percentage of 81.1% highlights his control and accuracy.

Jadeja’s 33 wickets against Sri Lanka in 14 innings have come at an economy rate of 2.85, with a strong bowling average of 23.7. His ability to trouble Sri Lankan batsmen is evident from his two five-wicket hauls, with a best of 5/41. Similarly, against New Zealand, Jadeja has taken 25 wickets in 16 innings, maintaining an economy of 2.41. Though his strike rate against the Kiwis is slightly higher at 77.8, his effectiveness in restricting runs is clear from his 80.4% dot ball percentage.

While his sample size against Afghanistan is smaller, Jadeja's efficiency shines through, taking 6 wickets in just 2 innings at a remarkable average of 5.8 and an economy of 2.73. His best bowling figures of 4/17 against Afghanistan illustrate his ability to strike early and maintain pressure. Across all teams, his dot percentages hover around or above 78%, highlighting his incredible control over line and length, keeping batsmen on the defensive, and cementing his legacy as one of India’s most reliable Test bowlers.

See Also: Travis Head's early burst powers Australia's explosive powerplay

Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja completed 300 Test wickets during the first innings of the Kanpur Test. During this Test match, Jadeja completed a Test all-rounder milestone, where he became the second fastest. 

After frustrating no game for the second and third days of the match, Bangladesh were all out for 233 runs. Although the no.3 Bangladesh batter Mominul Haque was not out for 107 runs, the visitors couldn’t fight strongly in the first innings. 

SEE ALSO: Indian openers thrash Test world record with fastest team 100 runs

Fourth fastest Indian to complete 300 Test wickets

The Indian left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja ended that innings with his bowling figures of 9.2-0-28-1. He took the last wicket of that innings by dismissing Khaled Ahmed for a duck. It was Jadeja’s 300th Test wicket. By completing 300 Test wickets in 74 matches, Jadeja became the fourth-fastest Indian bowler to complete 300 Test wickets. 

Fastest Indian bowlers to complete 300 Test wickets

Other key feats of Jadeja's 300 Test wickets

Jadeja became the third left-arm spinner to complete 300 Test wickets. The first two left-arm spinners in this list are former New Zealand cricketer Daniel Vettori (362 wickets) and former Sri Lankan cricketer Ranagana Herath (433 wickets).

Meanwhile, after the left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan (311 wickets), Jadeja became the second Indian left-arm bowler to record 300 Test wickets. Overall, Jadeja became the ninth left-arm bowler to pick up 300 Test wickets.

Also, Jadeja became the fourth Indian spinner and seventh overall Indian bowler to record at least 300 Test wickets. 

Second fastest to complete 3000 Test runs and 300 Test wickets

Jadeja has already completed 3000 Test runs. At the end of the first innings of his 74th Test match, the left-handed batter scored 3122 Test runs along with picking up 300 Test wickets. 

Jadeja became the third Indian (after Kapil Dev and Ravichandran Ashwin) and the 11th all-rounder to score 3000 runs and take 300 wickets in Test cricket. However, the Indian cricketer became the second fastest to record this all-round achievement, which he completed in his 74th Test match. 

Former English cricketer Sir Ian Botham holds the fastest record to complete 3000 runs and take 300 wickets in Test cricket.

Fastest to complete 3000 Test runs and 300 Test wickets

India extended their dominance in Test cricket at home with a resounding 280-run victory over Bangladesh in the first Test at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, on Sunday, September 22. After putting up 376 runs in the first innings, India bowled out Bangladesh for a paltry 149, securing a commanding 227-run lead. In the second innings, India added 287 more, setting an imposing 515-run target. Despite skipper Najmul Hasan Shanto’s fighting 82, Bangladesh crumbled to 234 all out, handing India a convincing win to open their Test season.

Though Bangladesh showed early promise in the match, dominating the first two sessions, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja led India’s resurgence. Ashwin’s crucial century and six wickets, combined with Jadeja’s all-round contributions, turned the tide in India’s favor. Jasprit Bumrah’s lethal bowling further dismantled Bangladesh, giving India control after the first innings. In the second innings, centuries from Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill ensured India’s dominance before the bowlers sealed the match.

Let’s take a closer look at the standout performances from India’s heroes in this commanding win:

Ravichandran Ashwin (113 runs, 6 wickets)

Ashwin was instrumental in India’s victory, delivering an all-round masterclass. Coming to bat when India was struggling at 144 for 6, Ashwin’s partnership with Jadeja (199 runs) turned the innings around. Ashwin’s splendid knock of 113, his 6th Test century, set up a solid platform. His brilliance continued with the ball as he took 6 crucial wickets in the second innings, ensuring Bangladesh’s collapse and earning him the Player of the Match award.

Ravindra Jadeja (86 runs, 5 wickets)

Jadeja proved once again why he is one of the most reliable all-rounders in Test cricket. His 86 runs in the first innings, coupled with five wickets across both innings (2 in the first, 3 in the second), anchored India’s dominance. Jadeja is now just one wicket away from reaching the milestone of 300 Test wickets.

Rishabh Pant (148 runs)

Returning to Test cricket after nearly two years, Pant made a memorable comeback. His quickfire 39 in the first innings was overshadowed by a superb 109 in the second, as he took on the Bangladeshi bowlers with his trademark aggressive style. Pant’s form is a huge boost for India as they gear up for the Australia Test series later this year.

See Also: "This 100 was special because I love playing in Chennai" - Rishabh Pant

Shubman Gill (119 runs)

Despite an early setback with an eight-ball duck in the first innings, Gill roared back in the second innings, scoring an unbeaten 119. This was his 5th Test century, reinforcing his status as one of the brightest young talents in Indian cricket.

Jasprit Bumrah (5 wickets)

Bumrah’s incisive bowling played a key role in dismantling Bangladesh’s batting lineup. His four wickets in the first innings set the tone for India’s dominance, and his crucial breakthrough in the second innings, dismissing Zakir Hasan, triggered Bangladesh’s collapse in their 515-run chase.

India now heads into the next Test with a 1-0 lead in the series, with momentum firmly on their side.

In comparison to batters and bowlers, India has produced a relatively scarce number of quality all-rounders. Top-order batters and spin spinners have always dominated the cricketing landscape. However, the few all-rounders that have emerged are not just numbers but remarkable talents on the world stage.

These Indian all-rounders have consistently showcased their versatility with both bat and ball, winning matches single-handedly, inspiring their teammates, and setting a benchmark for aspiring young cricketers. Here's a writeup to the top 5 Indian all-rounders who have left an indelible mark on Indian cricket history.  

Kapil Dev

It's no surprise to find Kapil Dev topping the given list. Kapil Dev, an embodiment of raw spirit and grit, has the potential to be remembered as one of India's best athletes. He bowls for extraordinarily lengthy durations that modern bowlers could never imagine, and he has never missed a match due to fitness difficulties. The former captain is India's third-highest wicket-taker in Tests.

But, above all, the 1983 World Cup win was the catalyst for the halo around him. His incredible catch to eliminate Viv Richards in the World Cup final may have been the turning point in the West Indies' dominance. In 382 international cricket matches, he has scored a colossal 9031 runs and 687 wickets. 

Ravichandran Ashwin

Ravichandran Ashwin's career has been a rollercoaster, but it has significantly influenced his arsenal. He replaced Harbhajan Singh on the Indian team and shattered several test records. Ashwin, a street-smart cricketer, used several variations to confuse batters across forms.

Even though he was one of the players who lost his spot in the ODI and T20 teams owing to India's glut of spinners, no one could match his test supremacy. With cautious knocks and daring ramp shots, Ashwin is one of India's top all-rounders. He has scored 4302 runs and taken 744 wickets in his current international spell across all formats.

Ravindra Jadeja

Ravindra Jadeja completely transformed the fielding aspect of the game, including his all-round ability. Jadeja failed to gain a position on the Indian side despite playing as Virat Kohli's vice-captain in the Under-19 World Cup. Jadeja is still evolving as a limited-overs all-rounder, but his combination with Ravichandran Ashwin is lethal in Test cricket. Jadeja is now a match-winning batsman, ball player, and fielder.

India cannot omit him from any of their teams. With his recent retirement from the T20I side, his fundamental contributions in the ODI and Test formats will be crucial for the Indian team in the coming days. In his international career, he has made 6393 runs and scalped 568 matches in 279 matches.

Also Read: Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja Entertain Once More at Chepauk

Irfan Pathan

Irfan Pathan was hyped as the future Kapil Dev during his early career. A great left-arm bowling all-rounder with the ability to swing the ball both ways joined the Indian team and immediately made an impression. He became the first Indian bowler to achieve a test hat-trick in the opening three deliveries of a test match.

After demonstrating his ability to knock rapid boundaries late in the innings, he was an easy pick to play for India in the 2007 T20 World Cup, when he was named Man of the Match in the final. In his 141-match career, he scored 2821 runs and scalped 301 wickets. 

Ravi Shastri

Ravi Shastri is a complete all-rounder both on and off the pitch. In some ways, he revolutionised the game by going against the tide. While batters began scoring runs more quickly, his defensive tactics, such as his ability to play long innings and tire out the opposition and subsequent high scores against formidable opponents, greatly benefited him.

He was a right-handed batsman who bowled left-arm orthodox, an unusual breed of player. But at times, Ravi Shastri became so vicious that he blasted six sixes in one over. His excellent statistics of 3830 runs with 151 wickets in test cricket and 3108 runs with 129 wickets in one-day internationals speak for themselves. Adding cherry on the top, he is also excellent at coaching and commenting.

A stunning counter-attacking century by spinner Ravichandran Ashwin led India to a solid 339/6 at stumps on Day 1 of the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai. Despite early pressure from seamer Hasan Mahmud, who ripped through India's top order with four wickets, Ashwin’s unbeaten 102 and Ravindra Jadeja’s steady 86 anchored India to a competitive position.

Hasan Mahmud strikes early, India slumps to 34/3

Bangladesh seamer Hasan Mahmud justified skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto’s decision to field first in overcast conditions, delivering an early blow by reducing India to 34/3 within the first hour of play. Hasan rattled the Indian top-order, dismissing skipper Rohit Sharma (6), Shubman Gill (0), and Virat Kohli (6) to put the hosts on the back foot. India briefly recovered with a 62-run stand between Yashasvi Jaiswal (56) and Rishabh Pant (39), but the middle order faltered, slipping to 144/6 by the second session.

See Also: Ravichandran Ashwin reaches new height with Chennai Test century

Ashwin and Jadeja rebuild, Bangladesh lose momentum

Ravichandran Ashwin, playing in his home city, led a remarkable fightback with a fluent 102* off 108 balls, marking his sixth Test century. Partnered with Ravindra Jadeja, who contributed 86*, the duo added an unbeaten 195-run partnership, blunting the Bangladesh bowling attack and bringing the home crowd to its feet. Ashwin’s aggressive century, laced with 12 boundaries, pulled India out of trouble and into a commanding position after a difficult start.

Ravindra Jadeja's fighting knock comes to an end! 🙌

📸: Jio Cinema#INDvsBAN #RavindraJadeja #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/rJ96kaalfw

— OneCricket (@OneCricketApp) September 20, 2024

Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja in the zone,
The GOAT duo, making every ball their own! ⚡️😎

Ash Anna 🤝Jaddu. 💪#ashwin #RAVINDRAJADEJA #TestCricket pic.twitter.com/KSex4f3IgI

— 𝑅𝓊𝒸𝒽𝒾 𝒮𝒾𝓃𝑔𝒽 𝑅𝒶𝒿𝓅𝓊𝓉✨💙 (@Ruchisingh4599) September 19, 2024

Ravindra Jadeja has been in fine form in Test cricket, showcasing his consistency and resilience in recent innings. Over his last seven outings, Jadeja has produced notable contributions, including a gritty 87 off 180 balls and an impressive century, 112 off 225 balls. His ability to anchor the innings is evident, with other significant scores of 86 off 124 deliveries and a determined 15 off 50 balls. Though he had a few low scores, like 2 off 20 balls and 4 off 33, Jadeja's overall performance highlights his importance as a key all-rounder for India in the longest format of the game.

After India had a horrible start on the opening day of the two-match home Test series against Bangladesh in Chennai, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin rescued the hosts with a marathon partnership.

India started the new home season roughly, losing the first three wickets within the first ten overs. Hasan Mahmud sent back the opener and skipper Rohit Sharma (6), Shubman Gill (0), and Virat Kohli (6) for single-digit scores.

Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rishabh Pant controlled the situation with a 62-run partnership for the fourth wicket. After Hasan Mahmud broke that partnership with the wicket of Pant (39), Jaiswal (56) and KL Rahul (16) were dismissed by Nahid Rana and Mehidy Hasan Miraz within 50 runs. 

SEE ALSO: Kamindu Mendis equals Test batting world record

Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin set new record

Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin’s historic seventh wicket partnership started from 144/6. While India’s first innings total of 200 runs seemed far away, the hosts ended the opening day at 339/6.

The left-handed batter Jadeja scored 86 not out off 117 balls with the help of 10 fours and two sixes. Meanwhile, the right-handed batter Ashwin remained not out on 102 off 112 balls with the help of ten fours and two sixes. The 38-year-old Ashwin hit his sixth Test century. Meanwhile, Jadeja-Ashwin ended the opening day of the first Test with a 195-run partnership for the unbroken seventh wicket. It is India’s highest partnership for seventh or lower wickets in a Test innings, when India lost their first six wickets less than 150 runs. The duo broke 52-year old record in the due process.

150 or more runs partnership for the seventh or lower wickets when India lost their first six wickets less than 150 runs in a Test innings