'What's wrong if player...': Ex-India star backs Ravindra Jadeja after all-rounder faces criticism from Australian media

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has come out in support of Ravindra Jadeja, who recently faced heavy criticism from the Australian media. This backlash came after Jadeja conducted an interview in Hindi during a press conference at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) ahead of the Boxing Day Test match, scheduled to begin on December 26.

The media interaction was organized by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for traveling media with some Australian media outlets also in attendance. While Indian journalists posed their questions in Hindi, Jadeja responded in the same language. However, as the Indian team bus was running late Jadeja had to leave the stadium without addressing any questions from the Australian media.

This led to some local journalists expressing their frustration towards the BCCI media manager, with the tense moments being captured by cameras and later broadcasted on Australian channels. 

Pressure is intensifying on India ahead of the Boxing Day test with the tourists adopting a siege mentality.

Just days after Virat Kohli's fiery run-in with Australian media, today his teammates refused to answer questions from local reporters. @trent_kniese #9News pic.twitter.com/ILKWC305Ag

— 9News Melbourne (@9NewsMelb) December 21, 2024

In response to the controversy, Irfan Pathan defended Jadeja's choice to conduct the interview in Hindi questioning why it should be seen as a problem.

What’s wrong if the player wants to give interview in hindi?

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) December 22, 2024

The upcoming fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy holds immense significance for both teams. The outcome of the Boxing Day Test will determine the series winner and could also impact the teams' standings in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. The Indian team, currently in third place on the WTC points table, needs to secure victories in the remaining two matches to qualify for the final. South Africa holds the top position, with Australia following closely in second place.

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