Ravindra Jadeja provided one of the lighter moments of India’s warm-up game against Sri Lanka Cricket XI on Day 2 when he mimicked Kuldeep Yadav’s distinctive bowling action, leaving head coach Gautam Gambhir in splits. The incident, captured on video, showed Jadeja recreating the wrist-spinner’s action in exaggerated fashion, prompting a hearty reaction from Gambhir and adding a touch of humour to India’s preparations in Sri Lanka.
The playful exchange came against the backdrop of an important practice game for India, with the players getting valuable exposure to conditions ahead of the Test series. Jadeja and Kuldeep are both expected to have significant roles to play with the ball, particularly on pitches where spin could become increasingly influential as matches progress.
IND vs SL XI, Day 2 Highlights
Both had already enjoyed productive outings during the warm-up. Jadeja finished with figures of 2/64 from 15 overs, dismissing Pasindu Sooriyabandara and Ramesh Mendis. Kuldeep, meanwhile, claimed 2/76 from 18 overs, removing Ahan Wickramasinghe and Anjala Bandara. Manav Suthar also impressed with 2/33 from 13 overs as India gradually chipped away at the SLC XI batting line-up.
JADEJA HELPS INDIA CLOSE THE GAP
Sri Lanka Cricket XI eventually declared on 363/8, leaving India with a sizeable target to chase. Jadeja then made an important contribution with the bat, scoring a composed 63 off 117 deliveries. He struck seven fours and provided stability after India lost wickets, allowing the lower order to settle.
Jadeja found strong support from Suthar, who produced an impressive unbeaten 29. The left-hander showed considerable patience before attacking the spinners, hitting three fours and a six. Their partnership helped India recover from 180/5 at tea and move within touching distance of the SLC XI total.
Jadeja eventually retired out on 63, giving other members of India’s batting line-up an opportunity to spend time in the middle. Suthar continued to hold firm as India pushed towards parity, while Kuldeep remained one of the side’s principal spin options after his extended bowling spell.
India finished Day 2 on 357/6, trailing SLC XI by just six runs. Devdutt Padikkal’s century had provided the foundation for the recovery, while contributions from Jadeja, Suthar and the lower order ensured India stayed firmly in the contest.
With the opening Test scheduled to begin on August 15 at the Galle International Stadium, the warm-up has offered India valuable match practice. But amid the serious preparations, Jadeja’s Kuldeep impression and Gambhir’s reaction, provided the Indian camp with a memorable dose of fun.
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