Sunil Gavaskar has come to the defence of Ravindra Jadeja amidst concerns about his performance in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. Despite Jadeja's lacklustre stats, with only 16 runs at an average of 8 and a strike rate of 145.45, as well as just one wicket with an economy rate of 7.80, Gavaskar believes Jadeja's overall contributions to the team are essential.
In the recent match against Australia on June 24, Jadeja scored an unbeaten 9 off 5 balls and bowled just one over, where Glenn Maxwell targeted him aggressively. Gavaskar highlighted Jadeja's past performances, experience, and exceptional fielding skills as vital for the team.
"I am not worried at all because he is a seasoned player. Whatever chances he's had, he has delivered. Let's not forget that in the field, he has saved the team 20 to 30 runs with his fielding, catches, and run-outs. Those 20-30 runs are crucial. So, when he comes on to bat or bowl, it's a bonus to his skills," Gavaskar stated on Star Sports.
Gavaskar stressed that Jadeja should not be judged harshly after a couple of poor games. He pointed out that fans and critics often do not consider their own errors in their professions when questioning athletes. Gavaskar also highlighted Jadeja's significant impact on the game through his fielding, aside from his contributions with the bat and ball.
"The problem with India and Indian fans is, 2 bad games and you go 'what to do with him, what to do with him?'. You know that is the worry. Nobody who asks these questions even thinks about their own professions, whether they have made 2 errors and whether people are questioning their place in their own profession, whichever profession they are. This is just simply a good topic for television, you don't question Jadeja's place in the playing XI. He's a rock star," Gavaskar added.
India secured their place in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup after defeating Australia by 24 runs, with Rohit Sharma earning the Player of the Match award for his 92-run knock under pressure. In the semi-final, India will face Jos Buttler’s England at the Providence Stadium.