Ravindra Jadeja Makes History as First Indian to Reach 50 World Test Championship Appearances
COLOMBO – Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has etched his name into the annals of cricket history, becoming the first Indian player to feature in 50 World Test Championship (WTC) matches. The milestone was achieved on Sunday as India took to the field against Sri Lanka for the second and final Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo.
The 37-year-old from Jamnagar, Gujarat, has been a cornerstone of India’s success in the longest format since the inception of the WTC. His longevity and consistent contributions across both batting and bowling departments have made him an indispensable asset in the national side.
A Legacy of Excellence
Jadeja’s performance metrics in the WTC highlight why he is widely regarded as one of the finest all-rounders in modern cricket. Across his 50 appearances, he has amassed 2,632 runs, including five centuries, and a career-best score of 175*. His prowess with the ball is equally impressive, with 160 wickets to his name, including six five-wicket hauls and stunning best figures of 7/42.
As Jadeja creates history in Colombo, he leads a competitive list of Indian stalwarts in the WTC format. Following him are Virat Kohli (46 matches), Mohammed Siraj (47), and Jasprit Bumrah (42), underscoring the shift in core personnel that has driven India’s recent campaigns.
Momentous Occasion in Colombo
The landmark Test was marked by significant team news as India looked to build on their 1-0 series lead. Following a dominant 165-run victory in the opening Test at Galle, India made a strategic change to the starting lineup.
Off-spinning all-rounder Saransh Jain was handed his long-awaited debut, replacing the sidelined Kuldeep Yadav, who was forced to sit out due to an infection. In a gesture honoring the milestone man, Jain received his maiden India Test cap directly from Jadeja during the pre-match team huddle—a poignant moment symbolizing the passing of the torch and the team’s unity.
India won the toss for the second consecutive match and elected to bat first, aiming to sweep the series and further solidify their standing on the WTC points table.
Playing XIs:
- India: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Saransh Jain, Manav Suthar, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna.
- Sri Lanka: Lahiru Udara, Kamil Mishara, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Kamindu Mendis, Dhananjaya de Silva (captain), Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Keshara Nuwantha, Prabath Jayasuriya, Lahiru Kumara, and Asitha Fernando.
