After a poor batting display by the Indians, it became even more apparent, why the team needs Ravindra Jadeja in their middle-order, especially in such testing conditions like South Africa. After the end of the day’s play, Team India were reduced to 208/8 in 59 overs, with KL Rahul’s 70 helping them to salvage some pride.
Meanwhile, just before the start of the match, Jadeja was ruled-out due to back spasms, and instead, the had to go with R Ashwin. That meant that the Indian tail was exposed early, with the team virtually short of a batsman.
Speaking to ESPNCricinfo after the end of day’s play, Sanjay Manjrekar spoke spoke about the importance of Jadeja the batsman. “India’s batting certainly got affected by Jadeja’s absence because his overseas batting in Tests has been sensational. I don’t think it will matter much with the ball as things could get interesting if the ball doesn’t turn.
“Then you will need someone who deceives in the air and Ashwin is a better option. But if they want to score some quick runs, then they will not have something that Jadeja provides.”
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