Post by : Maya Rahman

India is currently trailing 1-0 in their two-Test series against South Africa, with just one day remaining in Guwahati. At the outset of the final day, India finds itself at 27 for 2, facing an uphill task to chase down 549 runs. Even managing a draw would be a commendable outcome as India aims to avoid another home series defeat.

Allrounder Ravindra Jadeja stated that performing well on the last day could turn into a "win-win situation" for the team. Before day five, Jadeja remarked, "We need to bat effectively, taking it session by session. If we can hold our wickets in the first session, it will put pressure on their bowlers. Batting out the day would feel nearly like a victory for us."

He highlighted the significance of patience and discipline, urging the team to trust their defence and approach a formidable South African bowling lineup with caution.

Jadeja also noted the contrasts with India's 3-0 series triumph over South Africa in 2019, explaining, "I see minimal differences from 2019 as they have retained much of the same squad. Timing and toss outcomes are crucial; had we won the toss, the dynamics might have shifted. Our focus now is solely on executing well on day five."

Being a vital player in India's strong home Test record for the past 12 years, Jadeja asserted that navigating tough situations is an intrinsic part of cricket. "It's manageable; cricket revolves around situations. Chasing substantial targets poses challenges. It demands smart play and composure under pressure. The more experiences you gain, the more you evolve as a player," he said.

Jadeja underlined that India’s historical home victories have fortified their confidence. He remarked, "Since 2012, we’ve maintained an undefeated home series record; during this span, we often won tosses and posted considerable first-innings scores. We’ve picked up essential lessons for different contexts, and it's crucial to apply that knowledge now."

Amidst a transitional period with several senior players retired or absent, Jadeja sees it as a significant growth opportunity for younger team members. "For the youngsters, this experience is invaluable. They are at the beginning of their careers. Performing under pressure at home cultivates resilience. Successfully navigating this phase will enhance their maturity and strengthen India’s future squad," he added.

Jadeja emphasized a positive mindset, saying, "Even in failure, learning is key. Each player must give their all. Batters should concentrate on their individual games and own their responsibilities. Cricket is inherently unpredictable, and meeting challenges helps players evolve."

Securing a draw in the Guwahati Test is pivotal for not just pride but also for boosting the confidence of India's youthful roster. The team is determined to finish day five robustly, gather invaluable experiences, and prepare for upcoming matches. Jadeja maintains his optimism, believing that solid defence and sustained pressure can yield favorable results even under difficult circumstances.

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