Jadeja Denies Pitch Tampering Allegations in Heated Edgbaston Clash

Birmingham – Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has dismissed accusations from England captain Ben Stokes that he deliberately tampered with the pitch during Day 2 of the second Test at Edgbaston. The controversy arose when Stokes and bowler Chris Woakes complained to umpires, alleging Jadeja was stepping into the pitch’s protected area to create rough patches that could later aid spinners.

The incident occurred during India’s commanding first innings, where Jadeja scored a vital 89 runs off 137 balls, contributing to a 203-run partnership with captain Shubman Gill, who made a career-best 269. England’s concerns were sparked after Woakes noticed Jadeja’s movements near the danger area while batting. Umpire Sharfuddoula issued a warning to Jadeja, prompting a heated exchange with Stokes, who pointed out visible scuff marks on the pitch.

Jadeja firmly denied any intent to manipulate the surface, stating his focus was solely on batting. “Why would I do that? I was just trying to play my game,” he told ESPNcricinfo, emphasizing he had no reason to alter the pitch as he was not bowling in that area. Despite the confrontation, Jadeja remained composed, letting his performance with the bat overshadow the dispute.

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India’s dominant batting display saw them post 587 all out, with Gill’s double century anchoring the innings. England, struggling at 77/3 by stumps, trailed by 510 runs, with Akash Deep claiming two wickets. The verbal clash added intensity to an already gripping contest, as India maintained control on a pitch showing early signs of wear, per NDTV Sports.