Ravindra Jadeja Claims Two Wickets in Return to Rajasthan Royals as CSK Fall for 127
Ravindra Jadeja made an immediate impact in his first match back for the Rajasthan Royals in 17 years, taking 2/18 to help dismantle the Chennai Super Kings at the ACA Stadium on Monday. The Royals secured an eight-wicket victory, chasing down a 128-run target in just 12.1 overs, driven by a record-breaking 15-ball half-century from teenage batsman Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Key Match Highlights
- First Innings: Chennai Super Kings bowled out for 127.
- Top Scorer (CSK): Jamie Overton managed 43 runs off 36 balls.
- Bowling Returns: Ravindra Jadeja recorded 2/18 against his former franchise.
- Run Chase: Rajasthan Royals reached 128/2 in 12.1 overs.
CSK Batting Collapse
Chennai struggled against the Royals’ bowling attack from the opening overs. Fast bowlers Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger generated early pressure, allowing Jadeja to exploit the conditions in the middle overs. The veteran left-arm spinner dismissed Sarfaraz Khan and Shivam Dube, preventing the five-time Indian Premier League champions from building a competitive total.
Speaking during the mid-innings broadcast, Jadeja explained his strategy against Dube. “I think pink looks good on me, I guess,” Jadeja stated. “I have known Shivam Dube for a long time. I have bowled to him in the nets, so I understand how he approaches spinners. I was prepared for that and tried to bowl outside off, because I knew he would look to play big shots against me.”
Jadeja noted the surface provided assistance for the slow bowlers. “I felt the wicket was a bit sticky and the ball was turning, so I really enjoyed bowling. My job was just to hit the right areas and let the pitch do the rest,” he added.
Match Scorecard Summary
| Team | Score | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|
| Chennai Super Kings | 127 All Out | Jamie Overton: 43 (36) Ravindra Jadeja: 2/18 |
| Rajasthan Royals | 128/2 (12.1 Overs) | Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: 50* (15) Jofra Archer / Nandre Burger: Early Wickets |
Sooryavanshi Leads the Chase
The Rajasthan Royals pursued the 128-run target aggressively. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reached his half-century in just 15 deliveries. This explosive start neutralized the bowling attack and ensured the required run rate remained exceptionally low.
Following Sooryavanshi’s initial burst, top-order batters Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag guided the innings to a close. The pair secured the win with 47 balls remaining, capping off a dominant performance validated by official match statistics from the Board of Control for Cricket in India.
Before the chase began, Jadeja addressed the team to maintain their intensity. “You cannot take anything for granted in cricket. No matter the target, you have to work hard, play your shots, and give your 100 percent,” he said.
For complete player statistics and historical tournament data, visit ESPNcricinfo.