India's star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is leaving no stone unturned in his preparations for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. In a specialised training session captured by the BCCI, Jadeja was seen engaging in an innovative and challenging bowling drill designed to sharpen his accuracy under the watchful eye of bowling coach Morne Morkel.
The Colour-Coded Challenge: Morkel's Precision Test
The drill, which has caught the attention of cricket fans, involved a simple yet effective method. Bowling coach Morne Morkel placed differently coloured cones on the pitch – blue, green, and red. As Jadeja ran in to bowl, Morkel would call out a colour at the very last moment, and Jadeja's task was to land the ball as close as possible to the specified cone.
Explaining the process, Jadeja said, "Coach gave me a task: by the trigger, when I am going to pitch the ball, he will name the colour blue, green and red. He will pick from all three, and I have to pitch the ball closer to that colour with accuracy, like a normal match pitch." He added that Morkel also integrated instructions for fuller deliveries using two blue balls, making the drill a comprehensive test of line, length, and adaptability.
Jadeja's Form and Record Buoy Indian Hopes
Jadeja enters the three-match series riding on a wave of strong domestic form and proven pedigree against the Black Caps. He recently scored an unbeaten 52 against Gujarat and followed it with 36 runs and a wicket against Services in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, demonstrating his readiness across departments.
His ODI record against New Zealand is particularly impressive, built over 15 years. In 16 matches against them, Jadeja has scored 386 runs at a stellar average of 48.25. With the ball, he has been equally potent, claiming 10 wickets in those encounters. After missing the Australia ODIs, he made a successful return during the home series against South Africa, delivering a solid all-round performance.
Series Schedule and Venues
The first ODI of the series will be played at the Kotambi Stadium. The action will then shift to the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot for the second match on January 14. The series finale is scheduled for January 18 at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. This series is crucial for India's preparations and for players like Jadeja to cement their roles in the team's long-term plans.
With his fitness confirmed and a unique, focused training regimen under his belt, Ravindra Jadeja appears primed to be a decisive factor in the upcoming contests. His ability to contribute significantly with both bat and ball makes him a vital cog in the Indian lineup as they look to start the new year with a series victory.
