Some of the finest modern-day cricketers have raised the standard of international cricket through their consistency, versatility and ability to deliver when their teams need them most. Among them, India’s star all-rounder has carved out a special place with his remarkable all-round contributions. The veteran continues to prove his value across formats, and his latest Test milestone has earned praise from one of England’s most respected cricketing figures, Geoffrey Boycott.
Geoffrey Boycott picks his favourite present-day cricketer
Former England batter Boycott has revealed his admiration for Ravindra Jadeja, naming the India all-rounder as his favourite present-day cricketer. Boycott’s praise came after Jadeja delivered another influential performance during the first Test against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium. The 37-year-old bowled with control and discipline on the third day, eventually finishing with impressive figures of 3/57 from 21 overs.
More importantly, one of those wickets helped Jadeja reach a historic milestone in Test cricket. His second dismissal of the innings took his career tally to 350 Test wickets, placing him in an elite group of Indian all-rounders. Jadeja has now joined Kapil Dev as the only Indian players to complete the remarkable Test double of 4,000 runs and 350 wickets.
Reacting to Wisden’s post on X highlighting the achievement, Boycott kept his response short but emphatic. “My favourite present-day cricketer,” the former England star wrote.
My favourite present day cricketer https://t.co/Ep5wlaEgV8
— Sir Geoffrey Boycott (@GeoffreyBoycott) August 17, 2026
The aura of star all-rounder
Jadeja’s latest milestone is further evidence of his extraordinary contribution to Indian Test cricket. Across 90 matches, the left-arm spinner has accumulated 4,108 runs at an average of 38.03 while also claiming 351 wickets at an impressive average of 25.06. His batting record further highlights his importance as an all-rounder. Jadeja has registered six Test centuries, while his 15 five-wicket hauls underline his ability to completely change the course of a match with the ball.
The achievement is even more remarkable when considered in a global context. Jadeja is only the fourth cricketer in Test history to complete the combination of 4,000 runs and 350 wickets. He has joined the company of Daniel Vettori, Ian Botham and Kapil. What separates Jadeja from many other players is his ability to influence matches in virtually every department. He can produce crucial runs, break partnerships with his bowling, maintain pressure on opposition batters and provide exceptional value in the field.
