Debate erupts over ‘interesting’ Jadeja moment during first Test

A debate has erupted over whether Indian spinner Ravindra Jadeja wiped something on the ball during the first day of the first Test against Australia.

A debate has erupted after vision of a questionable moment was spotted during the first innings of the first Test between Australia and India.

Former Australian Test captain Tim Paine was among those to take note of what Ravindra Jadeja was doing ahead of one of his overs.

Watch Australia’s Tour of India. Every Test & ODI live & ad-break free during play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

With Alex Carey and Peter Handscomb at the crease and the Aussies at 5/120, Jadeja came in for his 16th over already sitting with figures of 3/30.

The TV broadcast captured Jadeja appearing to either take something off the hand of one of his teammates, or from inside his hand, with his right hand.

He then rubbed his hands and finger near and around the ball though it was uncertain what exactly was happening.

When footage of the moment was shared with Paine on Twitter, he replied: “Interesting.”

“What is it he is putting on his spinning finger? Never ever seen this,” England great Michael Vaughan also tweeted.

Interesting

— Tim Paine (@tdpaine36) February 9, 2023

Nothing to see here pic.twitter.com/e2IaYV3B1z

— Julian Timmins (@Mightypumper) February 9, 2023

Jadeja finished with figures of 5-47 as the Australians were bowled out for 177, with India 1-77 at stumps at the conclusion of day one.

CODE Sports’ Lachlan McKirdy tweeted: “Don’t reckon there’s anything in that Jadeja video with the ball. Play on, let’s go again tomorrow.”

Originally published as Debate erupts over ‘interesting’ Jadeja moment during first Test