Ravindra Jadeja dismisses retirement rumors after Champions Trophy triumph
What's the story
Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has put retirement rumors to rest after India's triumphant 2025 ICC Champions Trophy run. The all-rounder took to Instagram to dismiss the rumors, saying "No unnecessary rumors, thanks," with folded hands and salute emojis. The announcement comes after India's four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Stadium. Notably, Jadeja hit the winning runs for India.
Performance
Pivotal role in India's Champions Trophy victory
In the final against New Zealand, Jadeja was instrumental in taking the all-important wicket of Tom Latham and hitting the winning runs for Team India. Although retirement rumors had been rife before this tournament owing to his age and previous retirement from T20Is, Jadeja's on-field display was pivotal in clinching India's Champions Trophy title. He also claimed the best fielder's medal in the Indian dressing room following the victory.
Clarification
Jadeja's Instagram story puts retirement speculations to rest
The retirement rumors gained momentum during the final match, especially after senior batter Virat Kohli's hug to Jadeja following his 10-over spell that dented New Zealand. This made some fans think it was Kohli's farewell gesture. However, both Rohit Sharma and Kohli quashed similar retirement rumors during their post-match comments, with Rohit categorically confirming he had no plans of retiring in a press conference after the final.
Career
Jadeja's importance in ODIs
Ahead of the final, India's head coach Gautam Gambhir had stressed Jadeja's importance to the team. The all-rounder had earlier retired from T20Is after India's 2024 World Cup triumph. In ODIs, he boasts a record of 2,806 runs and 231 wickets. Despite the retirement rumors, his recent show in the Champions Trophy indicates he remains an integral player for India.