New Delhi: Ravindra Jadeja revealed that he was indeed “shocked” after he got to know about R Ashwin’s retirement five minutes prior to the press conference, where he announced his retirement.
“I got to know about the retirement at the last moment. Five minutes before the press conference. It was shocking,” Jadeja told the reporters at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
“We spent the entire day together, and he didn’t even gave me the hint. We all know how Ashwin’s mind works (laughs),” he added
Jadeja and Ashwin have formed one of the most formidable spin duos in Test cricket, having played 58 matches together and taking 587 wickets between them. This made them India’s most successful bowling pair, surpassing Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh, who took 501 wickets together.
With Ashwin’s retirement, Jadeja believes it has opened the door for younger players to seize the opportunity.
“We’ve been bowling partners for so many years, constantly complementing each other. We’d plan together against the batters. I will miss a lot of things,” Jadeja said.
“Hopefully, someone better, a spin bowler and all-rounder, will replace Ashwin.
“In India, we always have good talent, and it’s not like anyone is irreplaceable. We have to move on.
“It’s a golden opportunity for any youngster to grab this chance.”
At the Gabba, Ravindra Jadeja played a game-saving knock of 77, which has boosted his confidence. He plans to approach his batting with the same mindset at the MCG.
“Scoring runs when the team is in a tough position gives you confidence,” he said.
With the series tied at 1-1, Jadeja believes India has a strong opportunity to win the Border-Gavaskar Trophy three times in a row in Australia.
“We have a good chance to make it three in a row. One good effort and we can win the match and the series,” he said.
