Chances were still less to play T20 World Cup had I delayed knee surgery back then: Ravindra Jadeja

Returning to action after over five months following a successful knee surgery, star India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has shed light on his injury ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. A troubled knee that required surgery kept the star all-rounder out of action since the Asia Cup 2022. 

The 34-year-old underwent the surgery and also missed out on the T20 World Cup 2022 held in Australia. Upon being included in the crucial red-ball series against Australia, Jadeja in a BCCI video opened up on his injury and further added that the chances were still ‘less’ to feature in the marquee event even if he had taken the decision of not undergoing the surgery. 

"I was eagerly waiting to make a comeback and play for India. I had been struggling with my knee for some time, so surgery was needed. I had to take the decision whether to go for the surgery before the World Cup or after. Doctors advised me to do it before the World Cup because chances were less of playing at the World Cup had I not got the surgery done. So, I made up my mind to go for it,” said Jadeja. 

Excited that I'm wearing the Indian jersey again: Ravindra Jadeja 

The BCCI advised the veteran cricketer to play one game before participating in the Test series and Jadeja claimed a magnificent seven-wicket haul in a Ranji Trophy game for Saurashtra against Tamil Nadu. He further opened up on the grueling process of his recovery and also expressed his delight to don the Indian jersey after nearly five months. 

"Excited that I'm wearing the Indian jersey after more than five months. I have been blessed that I got a chance again. The (recovery) journey was quite up and down because if you stay away from cricket for five months then it is a little bit frustrating,” added Jadeja. 

The highly-anticipated Test series will kickstart on February 9 in Nagpur as both teams are on the cusp of making a place in the finals of the World Test Championship 2021-23 cycle.