- By Vishal Pushkar
- Fri, 01 Nov 2024 09:15 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
India vs New Zealand Test: Ace Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, reflecting on his 14th five-wicket haul on the opening day of the third Test, admitted to a deep personal disappointment as India faced its first potential home series loss in over a decade. This moment struck particularly hard for Jadeja, who made his Test debut just before India's remarkable unbeaten home streak began. Over his 77 Tests, he had come to feel an almost "invincible" confidence while playing at home.
"Personally, I had this fear... I thought I wouldn’t lose a series in India as long as I am playing. But that too has happened," Jadeja shared after the day’s play, expressing the disillusionment of seeing his worst cricketing fear come true.
Jadeja noted that cricket remains a "great leveller," as India’s struggle against New Zealand has reminded him not to take any outcome for granted.
“We won 18 series (at home), I thought as long as I am playing Test cricket in India we won't lose a series but that has happened, so I am not surprised with anything (that is happening)," Jadeja said.
"We have set the expectations really high. Since last 12 years we did not lose a single series. I think we have lost a total of five Test matches in which I played.
"I think this is a good achievement but when you set such high expectations and lose a series, it stands out and that is what is happening."
The veteran all-rounder conceded that Indian players will have to collectively shoulder the responsibility of the series loss to New Zealand.
"When we win, we lift the trophy together. Now that we have lost the series, all 15 in the team will take the blame collectively," he said.
Inputs from PTI