Veteran Jalaj Saxena to find new home after nine years with Kerala

The all-rounder Jalaj Saxena has decided to part ways with Kerala after nine seasons. Having made his domestic debut for his home state, Madhya Pradesh, in the 2005–06 season, Saxena moved to Kerala ahead of 2016–17 and went on to represent them until the 2024–25 season, featuring in 125 matches across formats.

The veteran cricketer confirmed the development with an announcement on his official social media handle on Tuesday, September 9.

"It's never easy to put my feelings into words, but today I want to share something close to my heart. I have played my last game in Kerala colours, and that thought still feels surreal,” Saxena wrote on his Instagram post on his official account.

“Saying this brings a strange mix of emotions - gratitude, pride and a little ache. Over the years, this team has given me more than just cricket. It gave me brothers, friends and a family that stood by me through every high and low. I've given blood, sweat, and tears - everything I had - for this journey, and in return, it gave me memories and bonds that will last a lifetime," he added.

Jalaj Saxena first to achieve 6000 runs, 400 wickets in RT

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Jalaj Saxena first to achieve 6000 runs, 400 wickets in RT

For Kerala, Saxena scored a staggering tally of 3153 runs while also claiming an aggregate of 352 wickets. In 58 first-class matches, he amassed 2252 runs, including three centuries, and took 269 wickets at an impressive average of 20.68, with 23 five-wicket hauls. During the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy season, when Kerala finished runners-up after losing the final to Vidarbha, Saxena etched his name into history by becoming the first player in the tournament’s history to complete the double of 6000 runs and 400 wickets.

His 269 first-class wickets for Kerala are the second-most for the state, behind only KN Ananthapadmanabhan’s 310. Overall, across his entire first-class career, Saxena has scored 7060 runs and taken 484 wickets, including 34 five-wicket hauls.

Saxena did not reveal which team he plans to join next, clarifying in his post that this is not a goodbye. Despite being one of the most consistent performers in Indian domestic cricket over the past two decades, a national team call-up has continued to elude him.