The two-Test series against West Indies started today, on October 2.
India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja revealed that his appointment as vice-captain for the ongoing two-match Test series against West Indies came as a surprise to him. The first Test is currently underway at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
The 36-year-old was named India’s Test vice-captain after Rishabh Pant was ruled out of the ongoing series due to a foot injury, which he sustained during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025. While Jadeja has previously served as vice-captain in limited-overs, this is the first time he is serving as India’s Test vice-captain. However, he has yet to lead India in any format.
When Jadeja was asked about his appointment as Shubman Gill’s deputy, he said in a BCCI.tv video, “They didn’t say anything to me. They just announced the team, and I saw that besides my name VC was written, so I was very happy. It’s very special for me as a player. They gave me respect because the management, captain, and coach have decided to give me some extra responsibility.”
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India are playing their first home test series without premier spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. He retired as India’s second-highest wicket-taker across formats. The off-spinner’s absence is significant, as his impact has been evident from India’s 12-year unbeaten series run in Test cricket at home. The series against West Indies also marks the first home Test after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retired from the longest format of the game.
Ravindra Jadeja’s role becomes crucial amidst these major changes. He leads India’s spin attack, featuring Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar, who are playing their 14th Test match each. His batting credentials across all conditions provide vital balance and depth to India’s lineup, allowing the team to play an extra seamer or spinner depending on the conditions.
The left-hander currently ranks as the world’s No.1 all-rounder in the ICC’s Test rankings. He is arguably the most valuable Test player for India over the past decade. The southpaw batter has amassed 3,886 runs at an average of 37.72, and taken 330 wickets at an average of 25.16 in 85 Tests.
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