Jadeja Opens Up on Early Career Confidence Struggles

Ravindra Jadeja has spoken candidly about the early struggles of his international career, revealing that being repeatedly pushed down the batting order left him doubting whether his teammates truly believed in his batting ability. The all-rounder shared these reflections in a chat with broadcasters ahead of the second day’s play in India’s ongoing Test against Sri Lanka, a session delayed by rain.

From Domestic Success to International Setbacks

Jadeja pointed out that his first-class record told a different story than his early India career suggested. He noted that his Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy batting average has stayed above 60, which gave him quiet confidence in his own ability even as his position in the national side told a different story. Despite that domestic pedigree, he often found himself batting as low as No. 8 or 9, and at times even below Ravichandran Ashwin, a slot that left him unsettled and questioning his place in the side.

Watching Bowlers Prepare Shook His Morale

The 36-year-old described watching a fast bowler pick out a bat beside him in the dressing room as a moment that quietly chipped away at his confidence, admitting the team didn’t seem to have confidence in him. Over the years, though, Jadeja said he built the patience and temperament needed to construct longer innings, turning himself into one of India’s most dependable all-rounders.

His comments came on the back of a strong showing from India on Day 1 against Sri Lanka. The hosts closed at 288 for 2, powered by Devdutt Padikkal’s unbeaten maiden Test century of 131 and a fluent 77 from KL Rahul, with Rishabh Pant unbeaten on 27 as bad light and rain interrupted play.