"Nothing to lose": Ravindra Jadeja opens up on iconic IPL 2023 final finish and what's next

Ravindra Jadeja reminisced about his thrilling performance in the IPL 2023 final during a chat with Ravichandran Ashwin.

Ravindra Jadeja

It’s been over a year since Ravindra Jadeja lit up the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad with a finish for the ages, and it’s a moment that still gives CSK fans goosebumps.

With just two balls left in the IPL 2023 final and Chennai Super Kings needing 10 runs to win, the pressure was sky-high. But for Jadeja, it wasn’t just about the scoreboard, it was a personal moment of reckoning.

Speaking on a recent chat show hosted by his former India teammate Ravichandran Ashwin, Jadeja reflected on those final moments that helped CSK clinch their record-equalling fifth IPL title.

"When we needed 10 off two balls, I told myself, ‘This is it. This is one of the biggest moments of my career.’ In the worst-case scenario, people might say I couldn’t finish it... but what if I actually pull it off?" he said, smiling at the memory.

With a calm head and fearless mindset, Jadeja launched a six and followed it up with a four, a one-two punch that broke Gujarat Titans’ hearts and sent CSK fans into a frenzy. As his teammates stormed the field, one image stood out: MS Dhoni lifting Jadeja in pure joy, a symbolic gesture from a captain to a trusted soldier.

“Mahi bhai has backed me for years. That night, I just wanted to give back. I had nothing to lose. Thankfully, I connected well, and we did it,” Jadeja added.

From yellow to whites: Jadeja’s focus shifts to England tour

After the high of the IPL, it’s now back to business for the 36-year-old all-rounder. Jadeja will soon be back in India colors, gearing up for a tough five-Test series in England starting June 20.

And if there’s one player who knows how to navigate English conditions, it’s him.

Over the past decade, Jadeja has steadily built a strong record in England. In 12 Tests there, he’s picked up 27 wickets and chipped in with vital runs, proving to be a dependable presence with both bat and ball.

This time around, he’ll be expected to lead India’s spin attack, with Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar providing support. With Ravichandran Ashwin not in the squad, Jadeja’s experience and control will be key in helping India challenge England on their home turf.

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