Colombo: India’s star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja created history on Sunday, August 23, 2026, by becoming the first Indian cricketer to feature in 50 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) matches.
The 37-year-old reached the landmark when he took the field for India in the second and final Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo. His achievement places him at the top of the list of Indian players with the most appearances in World Test Championship history.
Jadeja Becomes First Indian to Reach 50 WTC Matches
The World Test Championship was introduced in 2019, and Jadeja has remained a key part of India’s red-ball setup across multiple WTC cycles.
Before the Colombo Test, Jadeja had played 49 WTC matches. His appearance against Sri Lanka officially took his tally to 50, making him the first Indian to reach the milestone.
Former India captain Virat Kohli is next on the list with 46 WTC matches, while fast bowler Mohammed Siraj has now played 47.
Jadeja’s milestone reflects not only his longevity but also his importance as one of India’s most consistent all-round performers in Test cricket.
Jadeja’s Impressive WTC Record
Heading into his 50th World Test Championship appearance, Jadeja had built an outstanding all-round record.
Across his first 49 WTC matches, the left-hander had scored 2,632 runs and taken 160 wickets.
His WTC batting record includes a highest score of 175 not out, while his best bowling figures stand at 7 for 42. He has also registered five centuries and six five-wicket hauls in the championship.
These numbers underline why Jadeja has remained one of India’s most valuable players in the longest format.
India Face Sri Lanka in Second Test
Jadeja achieved the milestone during the second Test of India’s two-match series against Sri Lanka.
India entered the Colombo Test with a 1-0 series lead after defeating Sri Lanka by 165 runs in the opening Test at Galle.
India won the toss in Colombo and chose to bat first as they looked to complete a series sweep.
The match is also important for India’s campaign in the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle, with every victory contributing crucial points towards qualification for the WTC Final.
Strong Performance in Galle
Jadeja entered his 50th WTC match in good form.
During the opening Test in Galle, he played an important role with the ball as India secured a convincing victory.
The experienced left-arm spinner was part of an effective Indian spin attack alongside young Manav Suthar, who produced a memorable 10-wicket match haul.
Jadeja also recently reached another major Test milestone when he completed 350 wickets in Test cricket, further strengthening his position among India’s greatest all-rounders.
Jadeja Leads India’s WTC Appearance List
India’s leading players in terms of WTC appearances now include:
- Ravindra Jadeja – 50 matches
- Mohammed Siraj – 47 matches
- Virat Kohli – 46 matches
- Jasprit Bumrah – 42 matches
- Rishabh Pant – 42 matches
- Shubman Gill – 42 matches
- Ravichandran Ashwin – 41 matches
- Rohit Sharma – 40 matches
Jadeja is the first among them to cross the 50-match mark.
Another Major Milestone in Jadeja’s Career
Jadeja has developed into one of the most influential all-rounders of his generation.
His ability to contribute with the bat, take wickets with his left-arm spin and make an impact in the field has given India significant balance in Test cricket.
The 50-WTC-match landmark is another major addition to a career already filled with significant achievements.
As India continue their second Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo, Jadeja will now look to celebrate the historic appearance with another strong all-round performance and help India push for a 2-0 series victory.
Source – The Times of India
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