Before the second day of the first Test at Leeds even began, surprising news emerged from Team India. Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, along with some other players, reportedly separated from the main group. Jadeja arrived at the stadium not by the team bus but in a private car, sparking various speculations. On the first day, India posted a strong score of 359 for 3 wickets, with captain Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant still at the crease. The news of Jadeja’s apparent separation shocked fans, but the reality might be quite different.

Why Did This Happen?

On the morning of Day 2, both Ravindra Jadeja and Nitish Kumar Reddy reached the stadium ahead of the team bus, arriving by car. The likely reason for this early arrival is batting practice. Jadeja, who could come to bat after either Gill or Pant gets out, probably wanted extra time to prepare. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar Reddy, although not playing in this Test, was getting accustomed to English conditions, possibly preparing for future matches. Shortly after their arrival, the team bus reached the ground.

Jadeja’s Stellar Test Record

Ravindra Jadeja is currently ranked the number one all-rounder in Test cricket, a position he has held since March 9, 2022 — over 38 months now. He overtook the West Indies’ Jason Holder to claim the top spot. In 80 Test matches, Jadeja has scored 3,370 runs in 118 innings at an average of 34.74, including 4 centuries and 22 half-centuries. His highest score is an unbeaten 175. With the ball, he has taken 323 wickets, including 15 five-wicket hauls and 13 four-wicket hauls, cementing his status as one of the best all-rounders in the game.