India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja marked his return to domestic red-ball cricket with an impressive century for Saurashtra against Chhattisgarh in the Ranji Trophy on Monday.
Playing at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, Jadeja scored 102 runs on the second day of the contest, registering the 16th First-Class hundred of his career.
The innings comes at an important time for the experienced all-rounder as he prepares for India’s upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand next month.
Jadeja Shines With Century in Ranji Trophy
Jadeja made an immediate impact with the bat in Saurashtra’s Ranji Trophy encounter, reaching three figures to strengthen his preparations for international red-ball cricket.
His innings eventually ended on 102 when Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, his former Saurashtra teammate, dismissed him caught and bowled.
The century provided valuable time in the middle for the left-handed batter, who had not played red-ball cricket since India’s Test series in Sri Lanka.
Jadeja returned to the Saurashtra squad after India’s 2-1 victory over West Indies in the ODI series.
Although he appeared in two matches during that series and claimed two wickets, he did not get an opportunity to bat.
His century against Chhattisgarh therefore offered an important opportunity to regain batting rhythm ahead of another challenging international assignment.
India All-Rounder Prepares for New Zealand Challenge
Jadeja’s participation in the Ranji Trophy is part of his preparations for India’s upcoming Test tour of New Zealand.
The two-match series will begin with the opening Test in Wellington from November 19 to 23.
The second and final Test is scheduled to take place in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1.
With the New Zealand series approaching, Jadeja will be hoping to make the most of his domestic appearances to sharpen his red-ball skills.
His ability to contribute with both bat and left-arm spin remains an important part of India’s Test plans.
Saurashtra Aim for Strong Ranji Trophy Campaign
The 92nd edition of the Ranji Trophy began on October 11, with Saurashtra looking to improve on their disappointing performance last season.
The team suffered an early exit from the competition in the previous campaign and will be determined to produce better results this time.
Saurashtra have been placed in Elite Group B alongside Andhra, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Hyderabad, Karnataka, Punjab and Tripura.
Jadeja’s century gives the side an encouraging boost as it seeks a stronger run in India’s premier domestic First-Class tournament.
