Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Oct 8: Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel has lavished praise on Ravindra Jadeja following his match-winning all-round display in India’s thumping innings victory over the West Indies in the first Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Speaking to JioStar, Patel highlighted the significance of Jadeja’s performance — a fluent unbeaten century with the bat followed by a four-wicket haul with the ball — calling it a reflection of his elevated role in the team. According to Patel, Jadeja’s promotion to vice-captain has helped unlock a new level of maturity and consistency in his game.
“It’s been brilliant to see the way Jadeja has been batting,” Patel said. “Since being given more responsibility, he has embraced it fully. The management backed him even before that — asking him to take on flexible roles in the batting order — and that trust has clearly paid off.”
Patel praised Jadeja's ability to adapt to different match situations, particularly highlighting his technique and mindset. “His footwork, his ability to remain not out, and his shot selection were key in this Test. It wasn’t just a flashy innings — it was calculated and disciplined,” he added.
Going a step further, the former cricketer declared Jadeja as India’s greatest-ever all-rounder. “With close to 4,000 runs and 335 wickets, he’s already in elite company. I have no doubt he’ll cross 400 wickets before he finishes. Globally, he stands above players like Ben Stokes and Shakib Al Hasan. Jadeja delivers consistently — across conditions, across roles — and that’s what sets him apart.”
On India’s overall performance, Patel noted the team’s decision to play on a balanced wicket rather than a spin-friendly surface as a major positive. “We haven’t seen this kind of pitch often since the 2016 England series. It was refreshing to see India dominate on a track that offered something for everyone. The West Indies did challenge us with the new ball, but India were clearly the superior side.”
KL Rahul’s composed century was also highlighted as a key moment in the match. “Rahul is stepping up as a senior batter in this team. With Rohit and Virat retired, he’s carrying more responsibility, and it’s showing in the way he’s constructing his innings. He reads the game well, uses his feet effectively, and knows when to shift gears. His current Test average doesn’t do justice to his talent.”
Patel also commended Kuldeep Yadav’s performance, saying the left-arm wrist spinner was finally hitting his stride. “For Kuldeep, it’s often about how the ball is coming out of his hand. In this match, he bowled with real control — especially against Roston Chase. His variety, particularly the use of the googly, showed he’s in rhythm.”
Looking ahead to the second Test in Delhi on October 10, Patel offered his views on potential team changes. He expects Jasprit Bumrah to return, while Mohammed Siraj — set to leave for the ODI series in Australia — could be replaced by Nitish Kumar Reddy. Patel expressed interest in seeing Nitish used more as a bowler in the second Test.
On Devdutt Padikkal’s chances, Patel was cautious. “With Sai Sudharsan occupying the No. 3 spot, Padikkal may need to wait. But if given a chance, Sai has to make the most of it.”
Patel concluded by saying that India’s current blend of form, youth, and leadership bodes well for the series and the team’s long-term future.