India’s Ravindra Jadeja, right, with Yashasvi Jaiswal (AP Photo)
Last season, Virat Kohli returned to Delhi’s red-ball side for the first time in 13 years, while Rohit Sharma turned out for Mumbai after a gap of nearly a decade. Jadeja made the most of his opportunity with the bat for Saurashtra, registering his 16th first-class century with a score of 102. The all-rounder had not batted in a match since August 23 and had also missed out on an opportunity during India’s two ODIs against West Indies.
The BCCI ’s decision to make domestic cricket participation mandatory for its players has brought several of India’s biggest names back into the Ranji Trophy spotlight. The twin failures came after Rahul had scored an ODI century against West Indies, making his early Ranji struggles a surprise. His decision to feature in domestic cricket could also help him prepare for India’s upcoming red-ball assignment in New Zealand, where windy conditions and a swinging ball are expected to pose a challenge.
After failing to take a wicket in the first innings, he returned with figures of 2/19 in the second as Hyderabad dominated the opposition’s batting. The Hyderabad pacer turned out for his state side against Tripura and bowled nine overs in each innings.
For a batter regarded as one of India’s brightest prospects, the recent run has been challenging. However, Jaiswal is expected to feature in India’s XI for the New Zealand tour, which will be his first visit to the country with the national team.
Reproducing the form he displayed in England last year could prove important in giving India a strong start.