Rohit Sharma sheds light on Ravindra Jadeja’s unavailability in 1st Test against South Africa

Star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja missed the first Test match against South Africa. He missed the game due to upper back spasms, as revealed by skipper Rohit Sharma during the toss. This comes as a setback that was disclosed by the Indian Cricket Board just ahead of the match.

The left-arm spinner experienced discomfort on the morning of the game, rendering him unavailable for selection. This injury prevented Jadeja from being part of the playing XI announced by captain Rohit Sharma during the toss. The absence of Jadeja led to a shift in the team composition, with Ravichandran Ashwin securing a place alongside Shardul Thakur in the lineup.

Speaking at the toss, Rohit revealed that Ravindra Jadeja’s back spasms prompted the decision to bring in Ashwin as a replacement. Despite the setback, Rohit expressed confidence in the squad’s composition, emphasising the quality and versatility that Ashwin brings as a spinner.

Rohit said, “We are playing with four seamers and a spinner. Ashwin is playing in place of Jadeja. Jaddu had a bit of a back spasm, so Ashwin comes in, and he is a quality spinner to have. Prasidh is making his debut, along with the other pacers, Shardul, Siraj, and Bumrah.”

Rohit Sharma expressed uncertainty about the conditions

In terms of strategy, Rohit Sharma admitted uncertainty about whether to bat or bowl first, considering the playing conditions. The grass on the pitch and overhead conditions posed a challenge, but Rohit emphasised the team’s readiness to face such situations. Acknowledging the team’s previous experiences in South Africa, Rohit expressed optimism and confidence in the squad’s capabilities.

The announcement of Prasidh Krishna making his debut, alongside the experienced pace trio of Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah, showcased India’s emphasis on a potent bowling attack. Despite Jadeja’s absence, the captain reaffirmed the team’s adaptability and belief in the selected lineup, acknowledging the challenge of setting a competitive total in the first inning.