The recently concluded third Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Lord’s saw another thrilling chapter unfold between India and England. Despite a spirited fightback, India fell short by 22 runs in a tense chase of 193 runs, allowing England to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
While the match was rich in moments of brilliance, Ravindra Jadeja’s innings of 61 off 181 balls became a focal point of post-match discussion. The all-rounder showed admirable patience and discipline, especially after India was reduced to 71/5 but the innings sparked contrasting views about intent and impact.
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed his reservations about Ravindra Jadeja’s approach during that high-pressure chase. Though he praised the trust Jadeja showed in his defence and lauded his capacity to play long innings, referencing the four-hour vigil for 70 in the first innings but he felt that the left-hander lacked the proactive mindset required to turn the game around.
According to Sanjay Manjrekar, Jadeja appeared to be playing a waiting game without taking the calculated risks needed to achieve victory, especially when batting alongside tailenders Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.
Manjrekar pointed out that the visuals from the Indian balcony when Ravindra Jadeja completed his half-century reflected a subdued energy. As per him, it suggested that even within the dressing room, there wasn’t much hope for a win. While he stopped short of criticising Ravindra Jadeja’s intent outright, he made it clear that the knock, though gritty, didn’t carry the sense of urgency that the match situation demanded.
Sanjay Manjrekar also praised Bumrah for his resilience and mental strength, highlighting how the pacer stood firm for over 100 minutes against high-quality fast bowling. His ability to absorb pressure, dodge bouncers and stick to a plan reminded Manjrekar of Bumrah’s bowling attributes, toughness and determination, now surfacing in his batting as well. Siraj, meanwhile, was dismissed in unfortunate fashion, bowled after the ball trickled off the inside edge onto the stumps.
India’s defeat at Lord’s now puts them under pressure, trailing by 2-1 in the Test series. With the fourth Test set to begin at Old Trafford on July 23, the team will need to regroup quickly. The focus will be not only on individual performances but also on intent, especially in tight chases.
Ravindra Jadeja’s knock, despite the criticism, was a testament to his evolution as a batter who can occupy the crease. However, the larger question raised by voices like Manjrekar’s is whether mere occupation is enough when the match demands acceleration.
As the series heads into a decisive phase, India will be looking to blend grit with purpose and Ravindra Jadeja may have a chance yet again to prove that he can do more than just hold an end, he can lead India to the finish line.
