Jadeja showcases his Test credentials

DHARAMSALA: Ravindra Jadeja has endured constant doubts about his test credentials but the flamboyant all-rounder is convinced he belongs in the longest format of the game after putting India on the verge of a series victory against Australia on Monday.

The 28-year-old made his test debut in 2012 but has always been labelled as a bitsand-pieces player whose nagging left-arm spin and swashbuckling batting as well as agile fielding were more suited to limited-overs cricket.

But India’s current 13-test home season has seen the emergence of Jadeja the test player.

The bearded cricketer with tousled hair has stepped out of spin partner Ravichandran Ashwin’s shadow and has replaced the off-spinner as the number one test bowler in the rankings.

Jadeja proved his worth again on Monday, smashing 63 and claiming three wickets to put India on the verge of victory.

Jadeja celebrated his second successive fifty with his trademark twirling of the bat held like a sword.

“It feels good to be considered a responsible and valuable member of the side who can contribute - whether it’s with his batting, bowling or fielding,” Jadeja said. “Feeling good that I’m doing well in test cricket. I played many one-dayers and this year I played quite a few test matches and did well, which gives me a lot of satisfaction. “I consider myself suitable for both the formats.

“It gives me confidence that I can play and do well in the long version.”

India need 87 runs with all 10 wickets in hand to seal victory today. – Reuters