Jadeja Breaks BCCI Protocol
All-rounder escapes punishment; breach wasn’t an act of indiscipline—it was a gesture of commitment
In the high-stakes setting of the second Test between India and England at Edgbaston, Ravindra Jadeja made headlines not just for his performance but for a quiet act of defiance—one that spoke volumes about his intent. According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s updated guidelines, players are expected to travel to and from the ground together, using the team bus. This rule was introduced to ensure discipline and unity after a disappointing overseas tour. But on the morning of the second day, Jadeja chose to arrive at the ground ahead of schedule, alone. His reasoning was not based on vanity or convenience, but rather on preparation. With India in a precarious position after a shaky start, Jadeja knew the importance of his role.
He wanted extra time in the nets to face the new ball, to sharpen his focus, and to give himself the best chance of steering the innings forward. And that’s exactly what he did. Jadeja later explained that he felt the need to get in early batting practice because the ball was still relatively fresh. His instincts proved right. It wasn’t just about runs—it was about responsibility. Interestingly, his actions also sparked a minor on-field debate.