ODI World Cup 2023: Ravindra Jadeja bowls exceptional delivery to send Steve Smith packing

The fifth game of the ongoing ODI World Cup featured a clash between India and Australia at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on October 8. The much-awaited clash began with Australia winning the toss and opting to bat first.

After Mitchell Marsh’s early dismissal, Australia came under pressure. However, David Warner and Steve Smith rose to the occasion and played resilient knocks to release some pressure off of the Aussies.

It took the brilliance of ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja to bring India back into the game. Bowling to Smith in the 28th over, Jadeja’s first delivery of the over turned just enough to beat the star Australian batter. Landing around the middle, the ball turned enough to take out the off stump. 

Smith amassed 46 runs in 71 deliveries and played an excellent knock under pressure. However, the presence of mind from Jadeja and the brilliant delivery were just enough to send the veteran back to the pavilion.

Jadeja wreaks havoc as Australia crumble

Following Steve Smith’s dismissal, the Australian batters seem to be struggling. Just one over after the 34-year-old's wicket, Jadeja came right back to wreak havoc on the Australian batters.

The star spinner took the wicket of Marnus Labuschagne on the second ball of the 30th over. Labuschagne swooped down low for a sweep; however, as he missed the shot, he was caught behind by KL Rahul. Despite taking a review, the batter was deemed out at a score of 27 runs in 41 deliveries.

Furthermore, Jadeja added to Australia’s misery as he took the wicket of Alex Carey on the fourth ball of the same over. Losing five wickets and having scored 119 runs in 30 overs, Australia will hope for responsible knocks by the middle order.