Jadeja Did What He Is Capable Of, He Was Fantastic: Hardik Pandya

Mumbai: India defeated Australia by five wickets in the first one-day international at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, on March 17 to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Put into bat, Australia lost wickets at regular intervals and were bowled out for 188 in 35.4 overs with Mitchell Marsh top scoring with a 65-ball 81. Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj took three wickets each while Super King Ravindra Jadeja took two.

In reply, India were reduced to 83/5 in 19.2 overs. KL Rahul and Jadeja helped the Men in Blue to successfully chase down the target (191/5) in 39.5 overs. Rahul played a sublime 91-ball 75* (4’s-7, 6’s-1) while Jadeja was unbeaten at 45.

In the post-match presentation, Ravindra Jadeja, who was the Player of the Match said: “I’m playing ODI cricket after 8 months so I was just looking to adapt to the format as soon as possible. Luckily with the ball, I got a few wickets. When I went to bat, I was looking to build a partnership with KL. I knew that the total was small but still we had to chase it down.”

“We’ve been playing Test cricket. Line and length is different to Test cricket. You have to alter your lengths and pace. I was looking to bowl in good areas and I was also getting a bit of turn. I was looking to build a partnership today of about 70-80 runs, and that’s what happened. It was not easy to play the big shots because the ball was swinging,” he added.

Meanwhile India skipper Hardik Pandya praised the Indian team for their effforts on the field and specially credited Jadeja and KL Rahul’s crucial partnership.

“We were under pressure both the times. We kept our composure and found ways to come out of those situations. Once we got the momentum towards us, we were on top of the game. I am really proud of the way we caught today. The number of chances we created. Outstanding catches by Jaddu and Shubman as well.”

“Talking about Jaddu, he did what he’s capable of. Coming after a break in ODI cricket, the way he finished as well, we needed a partnership with KL and he did the job for us. That was fantastic. It was hot, I was enjoying my bowling. I was enjoying my batting as well. The way KL and Jaddu finished it off and the way they batted, it gave us the confidence. It was very relaxing watching them bat. Overall, a very good victory and very proud of them,” he added.