Jadeja Equals Qadir's Record With Fiery Five-Wicket Haul

In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Ravindra Jadeja has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by equalling the legendary Abdul Qadir's record for the most five-wicket hauls by a spinner in home Tests. This achievement came during the third and final Test match between India and New Zealand, held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Jadeja's performance not only highlights his exceptional talent but also underscores the rich legacy of spin bowling in cricket.

With his latest five-wicket haul, Jadeja now joins Qadir with a total of 12 five-wicket hauls at home, placing them both joint-eighth on the all-time list of Test spinners. The record is led by Sri Lanka's Muttiah Muralitharan, who boasts an impressive 45 five-wicket hauls from 73 Tests. Jadeja's achievement is particularly significant as it surpasses the records of other cricketing greats such as Kapil Dev, Glenn McGrath, and Waqar Younis. Among active players, only R Ashwin and Shakib Al Hasan have more home five-fors, with 29 and 14 respectively.

During the match, Jadeja's outstanding bowling figures of 22 overs, 1 maiden, 65 runs, and 5 wickets played a crucial role in dismantling New Zealand's batting lineup, which was bowled out for just 235 runs in 65.4 overs after they opted to bowl first. This performance not only showcases Jadeja's prowess as a bowler but also emphasizes the importance of home advantage in cricket.

Interestingly, Jadeja became the tenth left-arm spinner to take a Test five-for at the Wankhede Stadium. This ground has witnessed some memorable performances, including Ajaz Patel's historic feat of taking all ten wickets against India in 2021. Such records add to the rich tapestry of cricket history, making each match a potential chapter in the sport's ongoing narrative.

As cricket fans, we are fortunate to witness such extraordinary talent on the field. Jadeja's achievement serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a reminder of the enduring legacy of spin bowling. With each match, players like Jadeja continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, ensuring that the spirit of the game remains vibrant and exciting for generations to come.