'CRICKET LOVERS ADMIRE YOUR STYLISH STROKE PLAY': PM NARENDRA MODI LAUDS RAVINDRA JADEJA

NEW DELHI: Following India's thrilling seven-run victory over South Africa in the 2024 Men's T20 World Cup final, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli announced their retirement from T20 Internationals. In the wake of their decision, left-arm spin all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also declared his intention to retire from the shortest format of the game at the international level.

Jadeja made the announcement through his Instagram account.

“With a heart full of gratitude, I bid farewell to T20 internationals. Like a steadfast horse galloping with pride, I’ve always given my best for my country and will continue to do so in other formats,” Jadeja wrote.

“Winning the T20 World Cup was a dream come true, a pinnacle of my T20 International career. Thank you for the memories, the cheers, and the unwavering support. Jai hind Ravindrasinh Jadeja,” he said.

Congratulating Jadeja on his illustrious T20I career, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: 'Dear Ravindra Jadeja, you have performed exceptionally as an all-rounder. Cricket lovers admire your stylish stroke play, spin and superb fielding. Thank you for the enthralling T20 performances over the years. My best wishes for your endeavours ahead."

Jadeja made his first appearance for India in a T20I match against Sri Lanka in 2009. Since then, he has been a regular member of the Indian team, featuring in 74 T20Is. During his tenure, Jadeja accumulated 515 runs at a decent average of 21.45, maintaining a strike-rate of 127.16.

His agility and quick reflexes on the field also contributed to his success, as he took 28 catches in his T20I career.

Jadeja's prowess with the ball was equally impressive throughout his T20I journey. He proved to be a reliable wicket-taker, claiming 54 scalps at an average of 29.85.

His ability to maintain pressure on the batsmen was evident from his strike-rate of 7.13, which highlights his consistency in picking up wickets at regular intervals.