Ravindra Jadeja, the dynamic Indian all-rounder, has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by achieving the rare double of 3000 runs and 300 wickets in Test cricket. This remarkable feat places him alongside Indian cricket legends Kapil Dev and Ravichandran Ashwin, who have previously accomplished this milestone.
A Historic Achievement from Ravindra Jadeja
On September 30, 2024, during the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, Jadeja claimed his 300th Test wicket by dismissing Khaled Ahmed. This wicket not only marked a significant personal milestone for Jadeja but also solidified his status as one of the premier all-rounders in the history of the game.
Jadeja is now the third Indian cricketer to achieve this double, following in the footsteps of Kapil Dev and Ravichandran Ashwin. Kapil Dev, the legendary all-rounder, amassed 5248 runs and 434 wickets in his illustrious career, while Ashwin has accumulated 3422 runs and 524 wickets.
What makes Jadeja’s achievement even more remarkable is the speed at which he reached this milestone. He became the fastest Asian and the second-fastest player globally to achieve the 3000 runs-300 wickets double, accomplishing it in just 74 matches. Only England’s Ian Botham reached this landmark faster, doing so in 72 matches.
Over the years, Jadeja has delivered numerous match-winning performances. His all-round abilities were on full display during India’s historic series win in Australia in 2020-21, where he played a pivotal role with both bat and ball. His memorable performances include a crucial 81-run knock in the Melbourne Test and a match-winning spell of 4/62 in Sydney.
Ravindra Jadeja in the ELITE list of Test history 👊 pic.twitter.com/fsRtPfIYDT
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 30, 2024
Jadeja’s achievement invites comparisons with the great Kapil Dev and Ravichandran Ashwin. Kapil Dev, known for his aggressive batting and lethal swing bowling, was the first Indian to achieve the 3000 runs-300 wickets double. His all-round prowess was instrumental in India winning the 1983 World Cup. Ashwin, on the other hand, has been a modern-day great, known for his crafty off-spin and valuable contributions with the bat.
At 35, Jadeja still has a few years of cricket left in him. His fitness and form will be crucial as India prepares for upcoming challenges, including the ICC Test Championship and various bilateral series. Jadeja’s ability to adapt and perform in different conditions will be key to India’s success in the future.
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