JuicyTalk
When Ravindra Jadeja walked out against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026, it wasn’t just another match – it was personal. After spending over a decade with CSK, seeing him in the pink jersey of Rajasthan Royals (RR) felt unfamiliar to many fans. But on the field, Jadeja looked completely at ease, delivering a match-winning spell that reminded everyone of his class.
His figures of 2/18 in three overs played a key role in bundling CSK out for just 127. More than the numbers, it was the timing of his wickets that stood out. He broke the backbone of CSK’s middle order and shifted the momentum firmly in Rajasthan’s favour.
Ravindra Jadeja reflects on emotional CSK exit and strong start with RR
After the game, Jadeja didn’t shy away from addressing the emotional side of things. Leaving a franchise where he built his legacy wasn’t easy, and he admitted it openly.
“At first, it was a little difficult because I had played for CSK for around 12-13 years, so it was naturally an emotional time. But then I thought that this too is a part of the journey,” he said.
Still, there was a sense of comfort in returning to Rajasthan – the team where it all began for him.
“And the good thing is that I am going back to the team with which I won my first IPL title. So for me, those memories were always special – after the Under-19 phase, that was where I began my IPL journey, and in my very first year, we won the IPL title. That memory has always stayed with me,” he added.
It’s clear that while the emotions were mixed, Jadeja has embraced this new chapter with a positive mindset.
Jadeja breaks silence on Shivam Dube’s dismissal
One of the most talked-about moments of the match came during Jadeja’s battle with Shivam Dube. After being hit for a six, many expected Dube to continue his aggressive approach. Jadeja, however, had other plans.
He smartly adjusted his line, bowling it wider outside off. Dube took the bait, went for another big shot, and ended up finding a fielder at long-off. It was a classic case of a bowler outthinking a batter – and Jadeja knew exactly what he was doing.
Explaining the moment in the mid-innings break, he said: “I have known him for a long time. I was bowling to him in the nets. I know how he thinks and what he looks to do. I was prepared for that and tried to bowl outside off, because I knew he would look to play big shots against me.”
In the same spell, Jadeja also removed Sarfaraz Khan, leaving CSK struggling at 57/6. From there, the innings never really recovered.
It showed how experience and game awareness can make all the difference. Jadeja didn’t rely on pace or mystery – just pure cricketing intelligence and familiarity with his opponent’s mindset.
Jadeja reacts to his ‘gun’ celebration
Right after dismissing Dube, Jadeja pulled out his now-viral ‘gun’ celebration. The gesture quickly caught attention, with fans debating whether it was aimed at his former team. But Jadeja cleared the air in his own straightforward way.
“I used to do this celebration when I played for CSK, so I thought, why not continue with it here as well,” he said.
For him, it wasn’t about sending a message – it was simply about staying true to himself. The celebration, like his game, remains unchanged regardless of the jersey he wears.
And speaking of jerseys, Jadeja seems to be enjoying his return to RR. When asked about being back in pink after so many years, he responded with a smile: “I think pink looks good on me, I guess.”
That light-hearted remark summed up his current mindset perfectly – relaxed, confident, and fully settled in his new environment.
Looking ahead, Jadeja made it clear that he’s focused on contributing to his new team while continuing to grow.
“With those memories, and with a positive mindset, I felt good about going there. I knew I would get to learn new things with a new group, and I would also be able to share my experience with the people there.”
For Rajasthan Royals (RR), this version of Jadeja is a massive boost. And for fans, it’s a reminder that while teams may change, true match-winners always find a way to shine.
Also READ: IPL 2026 – Fans go berserk as clinical Rajasthan Royals thump Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati
