Saurashtra captain Jaydev Unadkat led his team to victory against Bengal in the Ranji Trophy final on their home ground of Eden Gardens.
Unadkat, who was released by the BCCI from the 2nd Test squad against Australia to play the final, made a heartwarming gesture after the win. He dedicated Saurashtra’s triumph to Cheteshwar Pujara, who has played a major role in the team’s success over the years.
Unadkat played a key role in Saurashtra’s victory, picking up nine wickets in the game, including a solid six-fer in the second innings. His performance was crucial in helping the team lift the trophy for the second time in four years.
Dedication to Cheteshwar Pujara
In a great example of camaraderie between teammates, Unadkat dedicated the win to Cheteshwar Pujara, who is perhaps the biggest name to represent the Ranji Trophy champions. “As I said before, it’s a fitting tribute to one of Saurashtra’s favourite sons, Chintu (Cheteshwar Pujara),” the captain said in an interview with ESPN Cricinfo.
Pujara has played a significant role in Saurashtra’s success over the years. Even though he was involved in the 2nd Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Delhi, which was his 100th Test Match, he was constantly cheering for Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy final. “He was equally eager, wishing us all throughout,” the fast bowler revealed.
The Importance of the Win
Unadkat highlighted the importance of the win for his team. “It was important to win this one to prove our dominance and to show everyone that this era, this decade belongs to Saurashtra,” he added. “Three trophies in three years prove that we have been doing a lot of things right. We have set a tone. I’m really proud of what this team has achieved. It’s not just about winning trophies but creating a legacy for our team, which will leave a bigger impact on cricket in the region,” he further said.
Jaydev Unadkat will now join the Indian team for the final two games of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He has also made a comeback in ODI cricket after 10 years and has been named in the squad for the 50-over series against Australia.
Saurashtra’s victory against Bengal in the Ranji Trophy final is a testament to their dominance in the region. With three trophies in three years, the team has set a high standard for cricket in the region. Unadkat’s dedication to Pujara and the team’s strong performance in the final will be remembered as a fitting tribute to Saurashtra’s success.
