Jadeja, who made a crucial 29-ball 35 in India’s win over arch-rivals Pakistan in the first game in the Asia Cup on Sunday, came out to bat after the wickets of opener K.L Rahul and captain Rohit Sharma.
He shared 52 runs with Hardik Pandya (33 not out) for the fifth wicket before getting out in the first ball of the last over. However, Pandya remained not out and sealed the game with a six off the fourth ball of the 20th over.
“Sometimes, left-arm spinners and leg spinners are bowling, so sending left-handed batters is easy and they can take chances. That is why I was promoted,” Jadeja said in the press conference before the match against Hong Kong.
“We had seen their (Pakistan) playing XI, they had a left-arm spinner and leg spinner. So I was aware that I could face this situation. I prepared myself mentally accordingly. Luckily, I went and my knock was crucial,” he added.
India take on Hong Kong, who made it through the qualifiers, next in the Asia Cup on Wednesday.
“We are going to play against Hong Kong with a positive mindset and we will not take them lightly. On a given day, anything can happen in T20Is. We will give our best and play positively,” Jadeja said.
–IANS
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