Speaking ahead of India\u2019s two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, Pujara said Jadeja has undergone a significant mental transformation in recent years, making him an even more potent weapon in the longest format.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The two-match series begins at the Galle International Stadium from August 15 to 19, while the second Test will be played in Colombo from August 23 to 27.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cEarlier, when Ravindra Jadeja used to bowl, his mindset was not to give away too many runs, especially in red-ball cricket. If there was a little help in the wicket, then he would try to take wickets. But if the wicket was not conducive to bowlers, his focus was on restricting the runs,\u201d Pujara told Jio Star.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cBut now, he has understood his own strengths and is bowling accordingly. In every game, he is trying to land the ball in the line of the stumps and get the batter out,\u201d he added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Pujara explained that the left-arm spinner\u2019s outlook has become far more aggressive, allowing him to explore different angles and variations without compromising control.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cEarlier, his mindset was a little more defensive, but now he is delivering every ball with the purpose of taking a wicket. So, you think a little more about your game. You use the crease a little better, try to go wider, and adjust your length according to the batter. That mental shift is very important for the game,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Jadeja is set to return to Test cricket after an extended absence. The veteran left-arm spinner suffered an elbow injury during the Indian Premier League (IPL) earlier this year, forcing him to miss India\u2019s one-off Test against Afghanistan last month despite the hosts registering a comfortable victory.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The upcoming series in Sri Lanka will mark Jadeja\u2019s first Test appearance since November 2025, when he featured in India\u2019s two-match home series against South Africa.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Jadeja is set to return to Test cricket after an extended absence. The veteran left-arm spinner suffered an elbow injury during the Indian Premier League (IPL) earlier this year, forcing him to miss India\u2019s one-off Test against Afghanistan last month despite the hosts registering a comfortable victory.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
With spin expected to play a decisive role on Sri Lankan pitches, Jadeja\u2019s return provides India with a major boost as they look to strengthen their World Test Championship final chances. <\/p>\r\n\r\n