IND vs SA 2025: Irfan Pathan blames Ravindra Jadeja's slow batting for India's loss in Raipur

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has called out Ravindra Jadeja's lacklustre innings in the second ODI of the series against South Africa in Raipur on Wednesday, December 3. Jadeja ended up unbeaten on 24 off 27 despite India posting 358 in their allotted quota of 50 overs.

Irfan recounted how he had pointed out the same issue while being on air during the match as well. The former India all-rounder felt that the Saurashtra cricketer should have been more attacking in his approach with the bat, especially considering the manner in which how other batters struck the ball on a batting-friendly wicket at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium.

“There was one issue for me. Ravindra Jadeja’s innings, which was an unbeaten 27-ball 24, felt extremely slow. During commentary, we were saying that this could hurt India, and in the end, that became the difference. If you're in such a strong position, above 300, and everyone is striking above a run-a-ball while you are at 88 [88.88], it clearly means the innings lacked urgency. Sometimes, a slower innings happens, and that's fine, but the intent from Jadeja was disappointing,” Pathan said in a video on his YouTube channel.

The cricketer-turned-commentator further mentioned how the commentary panel had forecasted dew playing a significant role in the outcome of the encounter in Raipur. He concluded by reiterating the fact that Jadeja's performance with the bat left him disappointed.

“The intent could have been better. And I am not saying this in hindsight. We said it during commentary as well. It looked like the ball would get wet, which always causes problems for the fielding side. South Africa’s plan was to start carefully. But Jadeja not pulling his weight with the bat became a disappointing factor for India,” he added.

Series goes into decider at Vizag

Despite posting a 350-plus total, India lost the match as the Temba Bavuma-led side crossed the finishing line with four wickets and as many deliveries to spare. Jadeja returned as the hosts' most economical bowler, conceding only 41 runs in seven overs. Despite this, the Men in Blue could not defend their score, as the three-match series is now tied at 1-1.

New Zealand great backs Ro-Ko for 2027 ODI World Cup

Also Read

New Zealand great backs Ro-Ko for 2027 ODI World Cup

Tons from Ruturaj Gaikwad and Virat Kohli were rendered futile as the Proteas got over the line with ease. Aiden Markram was adjudged as the Player of the Match for his match-winning 110 in the second innings. The series-deciding clash is scheduled to be played at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, December 6.