There was a time when it was impossible to beat Team India in Tests at home, let alone a series win or a whitewash. But for some reason, that has changed; first New Zealand beat IND 0-3, and now South Africa are on the verge of winning 0-2. India are 27/2 for now, and need to bat out 80-85 overs to save the Test on the final day, and Ravindra Jadeja feels that would be a win, if it happens.
Jadeja defends team’s performance
“Hopefully, we will try and save the Test match. So that, at least, I know even if we aren’t winning the series at least, we are able to draw the match, which is going to be a win-win situation for us,” he said. Even if it’s a defeat, it will help young players in the team.
“Look, the youngsters in the team, I think, they are in a learning phase. Their careers are starting. So, in international cricket, no matter what format you play, it’s not easy. So, in India, when a situation like this happens, and you play 3-4 youngsters in the team, it feels like the whole team is young and inexperienced. And that gets highlighted. But, when India wins in home condition, people think that it’s not a big deal. But, if you lose a series in India, it becomes a very big deal,” the all-rounder said.
A draw will be as good as win
He clarified, that it was a learning curve for the youngsters in the team, who are bound to come good in the series to come. “For a youngster, it’s a learning phase. If they handle this situation well, they will mature as players. And, India’s future will be better.” The veteran all-rounder also spoke about the pitch, and how it assisted SA when they bowled and batted.
“See, honestly, as a bowler, when we were bowling for the first two days, there were no marks on the wicket. The wicket was shining like a mirror. And, when they (South Africa) came to bowl, because of the wicket taken by the fast bowler, the spinners came into play more. And, their ball was turning and bouncing,” he said.
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