Former England batsman Geoffrey Boycott has declared Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja as his favorite cricketer at the moment. During the *Stick to Cricket* podcast, featuring prominent English cricket figures like Michael Vaughan, Alastair Cook, Phil Tufnell, and David Lloyd, Boycott lauded Jadeja for his all-round abilities and the infectious energy he brings to the game. Boycott, who amassed over 8,000 runs in Test matches, confessed that while he has never personally met Jadeja, he has consistently admired his cricketing prowess from a distance. “I like Jadeja. I’ve always liked him… He’s always in the game – bowling left-arm spin, brilliant in the field, and more than handy with the bat. But more than that, he lifts the whole team with his presence. That kind of influence can’t be measured in stats,” Boycott remarked on the podcast. He further highlighted Jadeja’s spirited character, noting, “He always has a smile on his face, but he’s tough inside. That’s the kind of cricketer I love – competitive, cheerful, and mentally strong. He’s helped Chennai Super Kings win five IPL titles, and in Test cricket too, he’s been exceptional for India.
Jadeja’s career statistics reflect his significant impact. Across all formats, he has played 363 matches, scoring 7,207 runs at an average of 33.83, including five centuries and 40 half-centuries. With the ball, he has taken 615 wickets at an average of 29.42, with 17 five-wicket hauls and three ten-wicket hauls. In Test cricket, Jadeja has truly solidified his legacy. In 85 Tests, he has accumulated 3,886 runs at an average of 37.72, including five centuries and 40 fifties. As a bowler, he has 330 wickets, averaging 25.16, with 15 five-fors and three ten-wicket match hauls.
Jadeja’s recent performances during India’s tour of England were particularly impressive. He was India’s fourth-highest run-scorer, with 516 runs in 10 innings at an average of 86.00, including one century and five fifties. He also contributed with seven wickets. This tour propelled Jadeja to become the third-highest Indian run-getter in England, with 1,158 runs, trailing only Sachin Tendulkar (1,575) and Rahul Dravid (1,376). He has also secured 34 wickets in England, making him one of the most successful Indian all-rounders in overseas conditions. Notably, only the legendary Garry Sobers of the West Indies has more runs and wickets in England than Jadeja among players who have batted primarily at number six or below. Sobers achieved 1,820 runs and 62 wickets, while Jadeja has 1,158 runs and 34 wickets.
