Ravindra Jadeja slammed for ‘No intent’ in 2nd ODI; Former player questions approach

Ravindra Jadeja faced strong criticism after the 2nd ODI, with a former cricketer slamming his lack of intent and questioning his overall approach at the crease.

Ravindra Jadeja (Image | BCCI on X)

India's star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has come under scrutiny for a slow batting performance in the second ODI against South Africa. Jadeja managed to score just 24 runs in 27 balls, which might have affected India’s overall scoring rate. He couldn’t hit a single six throughout the innings. Hence, India's former cricketer Irfan Pathan took a dig at the all-rounder.

Even in the bowling department he couldn't do much and it looks like his place in the team might be in danger since Axar Patel is benched. Pathan questioned Jadeja’s intent in the game because of the way he batted towards the end of the innings. Jadeja is an important member of the Indian team and has the ability to produce some solid performances as well.

Speaking on his YouTube show, the former Indian cricketer said, "There was one issue for me. Ravindra Jadeja’s innings, which was 27 balls for 24 not out, felt extremely slow. During commentary we were saying that this could hurt India, and in the end that became the difference. If you are in such a strong position, above 300, and everyone is striking above a run a ball while you are at 88, it clearly means the innings lacked urgency. Sometimes a slower innings happens, and that is fine, but the intent from Jadeja was disappointing."

Also read: Why are Australia and England wearing black armbands in Ashes 2025 2nd Test?

Should Axar Patel replace Ravindra Jadeja in upcoming game?

Ravindra Jadeja has been a helping hand for India since ages. But now, he is clearly struggling to score runs and take wickets and this is figured out by the opponents. Even after returning to the ODI series after getting rest in Australia series, Jadeja’s performance hasn’t improved.

On the other hand, Axar Patel is in an incredible form. We all witnessed his performance in the T20I series against Australia and the Asia Cup 2025. He should also get a chance to play in the ODI series but as Jadeja’s replacement or Washington Sundar’s is the management’s call. Jadeja’s batting is affected and that is felt by other cricket experts along with Irfan Pathan.

"The intent could have been better. And I am not saying this in hindsight. We said it during commentary as well. It looked like the ball would get wet, which always causes problems for the fielding side. South Africa’s plan was to start carefully. But Jadeja not pulling his weight with the bat became a disappointing factor for India,” he added.

Where to watch the India vs South Africa match?

Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs South Africa 3rd ODI match on December 6 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Also read: India’s WTC campaign suffers blow after embarrasing defeat vs SA; slips from third position

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