Watch- Ravindra Jadeja explain his "Unbeatable" IPL moment when CSK returned after a 2 year hiatus in 2018

India’s premier left-hand all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has explained the best moment he has ever come across in his 16-year IPL career. While speaking to Star Sports in an exclusive chat ahead of the 2024 edition, Jadeja made this admission. He stated that fan reactions after Chennai Super Kings’ return to IPL 2018 after a 2-year hiatus, is perhaps a moment that can never be recreated.

Ravindra Jadeja has always been a respectful and dignified cricketer. His contribution to the Indian team’s success in the recent past has never gone unnoticed. He also has tremendous love for his fans and rarely does he back down from giving his fans – moments they can cherish forever. From his sword celebration with the bat to his economical bowling, Jaddu has always been a fan favorite.

Ravindra Jadeja describes the moment when CSK fans welcomed the team back at Chepauk after 2 years

Emotions and anticipation levels were reaching skywards when the Chennai Super Kings were returning to their home ground at Chepauk back in 2018. CSK alongside Rajasthan Royals were found guilty of illegally betting on games by the Supreme Court with some of the officials of the teams also receiving life bans.

The decision was not challenged by either side and the BCCI had also supported the apex court’s decision. “BCCI is committed to honor and respect judicial decisions and it would give its observations after the entire report is read and a collective decision is taken.” – former BCCI chief Jagmohan Dalmiya. 

As a result, CSK players were scattered, with half of them playing for Gujarat Lions while the remaining lot played for the Rising Pune Super Giants. After the 2016 and 2017 editions, CSK under MS Dhoni returned like they never left as the Yellow Army landed its 3rd IPL title by beating Sunrisers Hyderabad in the final.

The craze for this team is something spectacular 😍

Here's what @imjadeja had to say about Chennai's fans and their fandom!

Don't miss #IPLonStar – STARTS 22ND MARCH! pic.twitter.com/4sUTgALto8

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 1, 2024

But way before the finale took place, when CSK were heading to Chepauk for their first training session in 2018, Ravindra Jadeja says fans were overflowing with Emotions and were crying.

“We returned in 2018 and as we were heading for practice in an open bus, there were people who were literally crying. Their (fans) excitement was evident and their feeling to see us after 2 years. Maybe 50-60 or more people actually had tears in their eyes after seeing the players. They were unable to believe that they are in Chennai.” – Jadeja told Star Sports. 

“Coming to Chennai after 2 years and playing there was unbelievable. Whenever I remember it, those scenes come in front of my eyes. The love people have for CSK in unbeatable.” – Jadeja concluded. 

Jadeja gearing up for the 5th Test against England

Before going out to defend the IPL title CSK won last year, Ravindra Jadeja has his sights set on helping team India end the 5-match Test series against England in style. The hosts are already 3-1 up and they will aim for nothing less than a win at Dharamshala. A win will further solidify their position in the WTC 2023-2025 cycle’s points table.

Jadeja has scored 217 runs and collected 17 wickets from the 4 Tests he has played. He was also adjudged as man of the match in the 3rd Test held in Rajkot where India had doubled their lead with a 434-run victory.