‘Jadeja owns PAK even after retirement’ – Fans hail mentor Ajay Jadeja after Afghanistan’s maiden ODI win against Pakistan in 2023 World Cup

Afghanistan scripted history by beating Pakistan for the first time in ODI cricket on Monday, October 23. And they did it in the 2023 ODI World Cup. It was the third upset of the ongoing World Cup, two of which were by underdogs Afghanistan. Hashmatullah Shahidi’s team thrashed England earlier and they now annihilated Pakistan by 8 wickets in Chennai.

Before entering the 2023 edition, Afghanistan had won just one match in their World Cup history. But now they have already won two of their five matches, both have come against formidable units who were considered favourites to win the tournament. Their opening pair – Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran – and the spin trio of Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan and Mujeeb Ur Rahman is their main strength.

While lauding their opening pair and lethal spin attack, their staff members also deserve a big round of applause for this historic win. It is essential for the management and coaching staff to provide a good environment for the players in the dressing room to create a strong bond between the players. The unity and fighting spirit of the Afghan players so far in the tournament have been outstanding.

Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja is one of the behind-the-scenes figures who have been instrumental in Afghanistan‘s epic victories. The 52-year-old assumed the role of mentor of the Asian side for the duration of the World Cup 2023. Jadeja, who was part of India’s World Cup squad in three editions (1992, 1996 and 1999), provides a wealth of experience to the inexperienced Afghan team.

Sachin Tendulkar praises Jadeja’s influence

Following Afghanistan’s historic win over Pakistan, legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar praised their new mentor for his influence in turning the team around.

“Afghanistan’s performance at this World Cup has been nothing short of outstanding. Their discipline with the bat, the temperament they’ve shown, and aggressive running between the wickets reflects their hard work. It could possibly be due to a certain Mr. Ajay Jadeja’s influence,” Jadeja’s former team player wrote on X.

Here’s how fans reacted: 

https://twitter.com/Cricjunction008/status/1716493597401612718