Ravindra Jadeja

Left-handed all-rounder who captained Chennai Super Kings in 2022 before stepping down mid-season.

Ravindrasinh Anirudhsinh Jadeja is an Indian all-rounder who bats left-handed and bowls left-arm orthodox spin. While he currently represents Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, his history with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) is significant. He was bought for $2 million by CSK at the 2012 IPL Players Auction. After a two-season ban, he joined Gujarat Lions in 2016 before returning to the fold later. Beyond T20s, he remains a vital member of India's Test and ODI squads, having announced his retirement from T20Is following the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup win.

Quick Facts

Full name: Ravindrasinh Anirudhsinh Jadeja
Born: 6 December 1988
Birthplace: Navagam Ghed, Gujarat, India
Nickname: Jaddu, Thalapathy
Batting: Left-handed
Bowling: Slow left-arm orthodox
Role: All-rounder
Country: India

Lore & Background

Jadeja's path to becoming a CSK captain began with his acquisition for $2 million in the 2012 IPL Players Auction. He established himself as a premier fielder and economical bowler during his tenure, eventually succeeding MS Dhoni as captain of the franchise for the 2022 IPL season. However, this leadership stint was short-lived; he stepped down in the middle of that same season. His time with CSK was interrupted when the team faced a two-season ban from the IPL. During this hiatus, Jadeja played for Gujarat Lions, who bought him for ₹9.5 crores in the 2016 auction. Despite the temporary split, his return to the yellow jersey highlighted his enduring value. He is widely regarded as one of the finest fielders of his generation, a reputation built on moments like taking crucial catches and effecting run-outs that often define matches.

Reader's Guide

For fans following Jadeja's specific journey with Chennai Super Kings, key dates define his tenure. He entered the fray in 2012 for $2 million, a record-breaking sum at the time that signaled his rising status. His departure and subsequent return marked a unique chapter; after the CSK ban, he suited up for Gujarat Lions in 2016 for ₹9.5 crores before rejoining CSK later. A major milestone occurred in 2022 when he was announced as captain, succeeding MS Dhoni, though his tenure ended mid-season. Statistically, his impact is evident: he was the leading wicket-taker and player of the final in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, taking 12 wickets in the tournament. In international play, he has been instrumental, such as when he became the fastest left-arm bowler to reach 150 Test wickets in just 32 matches on 5 August 2017.

Did You Know?

Jadeja was the first Indian left-arm spinner to take 150 One Day International wickets, achieving this on 22 January 2017 against Sam Billings.
Jadeja was vice-captain of the Indian U-19 team that won the World Cup in Malaysia in 2008, captained by Virat Kohli.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Ravindra Jadeja begin his journey with Chennai Super Kings?

Jadeja made his IPL debut for CSK in 2009 and became a permanent fixture after being retained during key auctions like the one in 2012. His early integration helped solidify the team's spin attack from the outset.

Why did Ravindra Jadeja leave Chennai Super Kings temporarily?

He was suspended for two seasons due to a spot-fixing scandal, which led him to play for Gujarat Lions upon his return in 2016. He eventually rejoined CSK in 2018 and continued as a key player.