Former India cricketer Ajay Jadeja has returned to competitive cricket with an eye on playing first-class games again. He is leading Haryana in the ongoing Kalpathi Buchi Babu all-India tournament here. The 42-year-old last played a first-class match in 2007.
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On whether he is open to play in the IPL: I want to make it clear that I am not eyeing a berth in the IPL. Even if I get a chance, I don’t think I am fit enough to play the T20 format. It’s a different ball game. I’m happy to sit in a studio during the IPL.
On his chances of playing for Haryana: I would love to play in the Ranji Trophy. Mere bap dada ki trophy hain yaar (It’s my forefather’s trophy). I wouldn’t have made a comeback if I didn’t have belief in myself. If I’m not one of the fittest players in the team, I would step aside. I have been working hard and spending a lot of time with youngsters on the field. Today I enjoyed myself out in the park. It felt nice to be with my old team.
On taking up coaching: Only administrators can decide that. Now I have an opportunity to play, so I have come here. It’s up to them to offer a chance and the choice is with the individual to take it or not.