Ravindra Jadeja breaches BCCI protocol but unlikely to face sanctions

India’s experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja broke the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) newly enforced travel guidelines during the second Test against England at Edgbaston but is unlikely to face any disciplinary action.

The BCCI had recently implemented new standard operating procedures (SOPs), which require all players to travel to and from the stadium together on the team bus. These rules were put in place after India’s tour of Australia to ensure better discipline and coordination.

However, on the second day of the Edgbaston Test, Jadeja arrived at the ground earlier than the scheduled team arrival. His aim was to get in some extra batting practice before the day’s play began — a move that technically violated the BCCI’s travel protocol.

Despite this breach, no sanctions are expected, as the intent behind Jadeja’s early arrival was purely cricket-related. The team management has reportedly accepted that his actions were motivated by a desire to perform better for the team.

Jadeja went on to play a crucial knock in the first innings, scoring 89 runs and forming a 203-run partnership with captain Shubman Gill. Their stand helped India recover from a difficult position at 211 for 5 and finish with a first-innings total of over 500.

Speaking after the day’s play, Jadeja explained why he arrived early at the stadium.

"I felt I should go and bat a little extra because the ball was still new. If I could play out the new ball, it would become easier for the rest of the innings," he said.

He also expressed his satisfaction with contributing to the team’s cause.

"When you contribute with the bat outside India, especially when the team needs you, it feels great," Jadeja added. 

"To come in at 210 for 5 and build a big partnership — that’s a challenge I enjoy. Batting with the captain and spending time at the crease really boosts your confidence," he concluded.