Ravindra Jadeja has admitted that his appointment as India’s vice-captain for the ongoing two-Test series against the West Indies came as an unexpected honour. The first Test of the series began on Thursday (October 2) at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, where the 36-year-old all-rounder is also leading India’s spin attack.
Jadeja stepped into the role after regular deputy Rishabh Pant was ruled out due to a foot injury sustained during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 in England. While Jadeja has previously served as vice-captain in limited-overs cricket, this is the first time he has been handed the responsibility in Test matches. He has yet to captain India in any format.
Speaking on BCCI.TV, Jadeja revealed how he found out about the decision. “They didn’t say anything to me. They just announced the team, and I saw that besides my name, the VC is written, so I was very happy. It’s very special for me as a player. They gave me respect because the management, captain, and coach have decided to give me some extra responsibility,” he said.
The series has already been marked by major changes for India. For the first time in 15 years, the team is playing a home Test series without premier off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s second-highest wicket-taker across formats.
His absence ends an era that has seen India remain unbeaten in home Test series for the past 12 years. Adding to the transition, the matches are also India’s first home series after the retirements of stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
Jadeja’s influence will therefore be pivotal. He now leads a spin department featuring Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar, both of whom are making their 14th Test appearances. His all-round ability also provides India with the balance to adjust their team composition, whether it means fielding an extra spinner on turning tracks or strengthening the pace attack on greener surfaces.
Statistically, Jadeja stands as India’s most consistent Test performer over the past decade. Currently ranked the world’s number one Test all-rounder, he has scored 3,886 runs at an average of 37.72 while also claiming 330 wickets at an impressive average of 25.16 across 85 matches.
With leadership responsibility now added to his established role as India’s key all-rounder, Jadeja finds himself at the heart of a new chapter in Indian Test cricket. How he balances the dual demands of performance and mentorship could play a decisive role in shaping India’s fortunes against the West Indies and beyond.
