Ravindra Jadeja, a prominent figure in Indian cricket, found himself amidst family discord after his father made disparaging remarks about his wife during an interview. Reacting swiftly, Jadeja disavowed these comments without elaboration. However, amidst India’s victory over England in the Rajkot Test, Jadeja stood out as the Player of the Match and dedicated the accolade to his wife, Rivaba.
In a poignant video circulated by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Jadeja expressed profound appreciation for Rivaba’s steadfast support and her significant role in his cricketing triumphs.
Ravindra Jadeja said, "I would like to dedicate this POTM award to my wife. She's working really hard behind me and supported me throughout". pic.twitter.com/OuVmLVRBVT
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 19, 2024
Reflecting on his outstanding performance, Jadeja highlighted the importance of his 5-wicket haul in the second innings, coupled with achieving a century and another 5-wicket haul in the same Test, particularly on his home ground.
He took personal pride in this achievement and graciously attributed the honor to Rivaba, acknowledging her crucial role in bolstering his mental fortitude and unwavering confidence throughout his journey.
https://twitter.com/Iam_Haraprasad/status/1759446264175849872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1759446264175849872%7Ctwgr%5Ee0cad1244cec3b50811bcd256659fb8508bf24d8%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fin.mashable.com%2Fculture%2F69944%2Fravindra-jadeja-dedicates-his-mom-award-to-wife-rivaba-days-after-fathers-controversial-remark
Ravindra Jadeja said, "I would like to dedicate this POTM award to my wife. She's working really hard behind me and supported me throughout". pic.twitter.com/OuVmLVRBVT
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) February 19, 2024
Ashwin dedicated his 500 wickets to his dad, rushed back when his mother was hospitalized, I'm glad Ashwin is my favourite test all-rounder.
— Aarushi Joshi (@Aarushijoshii) February 19, 2024
His father was absolutely correct.
— ROFL Gandhi -2.0🏹 (@ccredited_) February 19, 2024
Ravindra Jadeja dedicated his Player of the match to his wife.
– A lovely gesture by Jaddu. pic.twitter.com/GO0RntqeIp
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) February 19, 2024
Previously, Jadeja had firmly refuted his father’s statements in the contentious interview, dismissing them as baseless and untrue. He vehemently opposed any attempt to tarnish Rivaba’s reputation, emphasizing the significance of maintaining familial harmony. Despite undisclosed grievances, Jadeja opted for discretion rather than public confrontation, aiming to avoid further controversy.
Jadeja’s stellar performance during the Rajkot Test played a decisive role in India’s resounding victory, marking their largest-ever win in terms of runs in Test cricket. His remarkable 5-wicket haul in the second innings significantly contributed to India’s commanding 434-run triumph over England, securing a 2-1 lead in the series.
Beyond the realm of cricket, Jadeja’s gesture of dedicating the Player of the Match award to Rivaba underscores the importance of familial support in an athlete’s journey. Rivaba’s unwavering presence exemplifies the crucial role that spouses play in nurturing athletes’ mental resilience amidst challenges and triumphs.
As Ravindra Jadeja continues to excel in cricket, his unwavering commitment to both family and sport embodies values of integrity, perseverance, and gratitude. In celebrating his victories, Jadeja not only acknowledges his personal achievements but also pays tribute to the steadfast support of his loved ones, epitomizing the essence of sportsmanship both on and off the field.
