“Surprised but Honoured”: Jadeja Talks About His Vice-Captaincy for India’s WI Test Series
In a surprise development, senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been named vice-captain of the Indian Test team for the two-match home series against West Indies. The appointment comes after India’s regular vice-captain, Rishabh Pant, was ruled out owing to a foot injury sustained during the England tour.
The 36-year-old, a veteran of 85 Test matches, admitted that he was taken aback when he saw his name listed as the vice-captain on the team sheet. Jadeja described the moment as a “special feeling” and highlighted the confidence and faith shown by the team management, captain Shubman Gill, and coach.
“They didn’t say anything to me. They just announced the team and I saw that besides my name the VC is written, so I was very happy. And as a player, you always gain confidence whenever you see some kind of gesture from the management, captain and coach. At the end of the day, you are always happy to do good and share your experience with the team,” Jadeja said in an interview with BCCI.tv.
Sharing Experience and Leadership Responsibilities
Jadeja expressed that his vice-captaincy goes beyond the title. He emphasized that it allows him to contribute his experience to team planning and strategy.
“It’s very special for me as a player. They gave me respect because the management, captain, and coach have decided to give me some extra responsibility. I am very happy to do it and whenever the team needed my experience and needed me to say anything regarding planning, I am always happy to do it,” he added.
The legendary all-rounder brings a wealth of knowledge, having recently enjoyed a prolific Test series in England, where he scored five fifties and a century, helping India level the five-match series 2-2. His ability to contribute both with the bat and ball makes him an invaluable asset to the leadership group.
Debut as Vice-Captain
Jadeja officially started his vice-captaincy duties on Thursday, October 2, during Day 1 of the first Test against West Indies at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. His presence adds balance to the team, especially in decision-making on the field and mentoring younger players.
The move also highlights India’s emphasis on experienced leadership, particularly with new and returning players like Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel in the squad. With Shubman Gill as captain, Jadeja’s calm demeanor and tactical acumen are expected to guide the team in key moments during the series.
