Ravindra Jadeja added a sharp edge to Rajasthan Royals’ meeting with Gujarat Titans when he sent back former RR captain Jos Buttler in a dramatic moment, triggering one of his signature “pocket” celebrations. Jadeja, who has been part of Rajasthan’s setup this season, struck in the 14th over at a time when Buttler was beginning to look like he could accelerate the innings. The dismissal was followed by a celebration that quickly became the talking point of the match.
Jadeja’s breakthrough and the “pocket” celebration
In the 14th over, Buttler tried to go big off the second delivery. However, the shot didn’t carry the way he intended and he ended up finding Donovan Ferreira in the deep.
What drew immediate attention was Jadeja’s reaction. After taking the wicket, he celebrated with the familiar gesture—handing himself a “pocket” moment by sliding his hand into his pocket while staring toward Buttler as the batter walked off. The intent of the celebration appeared to be a playful jab, suggesting Buttler was “in his pocket” after the dismissal.
This wasn’t a one-off. Jadeja has already used the same gesture earlier this season, doing it again after getting Nicholas Pooran out against Lucknow Super Giants.
How Jadeja has fared against Buttler in T20s
Jadeja’s strike over Buttler also reflected a broader trend in their T20 encounters. Over the years, the left-arm spinner has been able to keep Buttler under control, particularly during the middle overs.
- In 12 T20 innings against Jadeja, Buttler has made 82 runs off 66 balls.
- Buttler has been dismissed three times by Jadeja in that head-to-head.
- The strike rate for Buttler in those innings stands at 124.24.
- Jadeja has consistently slowed Buttler down during the middle overs, limiting his ability to dominate regularly.
Jaiswal steps in as captain as Riyan Parag misses out
Rajasthan’s team management also shaped the build-up to the contest. With regular captain Riyan Parag ruled out due to a hamstring injury, Yashasvi Jaiswal took over the captaincy for the IPL clash against Gujarat Titans on Saturday.
Jaiswal captained the side in the IPL for the first time, and after winning the toss he chose to field first. Parag had suffered the hamstring issue during Rajasthan’s previous match, forcing the Royals to make a leadership change ahead of a key fixture in the playoff race.
Jaiswal’s toss statement and confirmed changes
At the toss, Jaiswal confirmed Parag’s unavailability and explained the alterations to the playing XI. He also spoke to the mindset of the group despite the setback, saying the team was ready to take on the challenge.
- Jaiswal said the plan was to bowl first, adding that the wicket looked suitable for it and that Rajasthan would aim to chase.
- He stated that Parag had pulled his hamstring in the previous game and suggested the captain would be back soon.
- Shimron Hetmyer was named as the replacement.
- Yash Raj Punja was also brought into the XI.
Jaiswal’s words at the toss captured the mood: “We are going to bowl first. I think the wicket is pretty good and we want to chase it. Riyan pulled his hamstring last game, so I feel he’ll be coming back soon. Shimron Hetmyer comes in and Yash Raj Punja comes in. That’s the two guys who are coming in. I’m really excited, looking forward to the game.”
