Unstoppable Jalaj Saxena
Ravish Kumar
| 14-11-2024
· Sport team
In a dazzling moment for Indian domestic cricket, Jalaj Saxena achieved an incredible milestone in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024.
The seasoned Kerala all-rounder made history by becoming the first player to score 6000 runs and take 400 wickets in the tournament.
Dear Lykkers. This impressive dual record came during the fourth-round match between Kerala and Uttar Pradesh in Thiruvananthapuram, further solidifying Saxena's place as one of the Ranji Trophy's finest talents.

The Record-Breaking Moment

Saxena's 400th wicket was a special one, dismissing Nitish Rana for 25 runs and marking his fourth wicket of the day. This achievement made him only the 13th bowler in the tournament's history to claim 400 wickets, and the first and only active player to have also crossed the 6000-run mark. The all-rounder's feat places him among an elite club, showcasing his skills not only as a disciplined bowler but also as a reliable batsman with a long-standing record of contributions.

Jalaj Saxena on his #IPL2021 Debut!

Video by PUNJAB KINGS

First-Class Career and Journey with Kerala

The 37-year-old began his First-Class journey in 2005 with Madhya Pradesh, where he played for over a decade before moving to Kerala in the 2016-17 season. Since then, Saxena has emerged as a key player for Kerala, becoming the state's second-highest wicket-taker in First-Class cricket, only behind KN Ananthapadmanabhan.
His 6000-run mark, achieved in the previous round against Bengal in Kolkata, underscores his skill and dependability, elevating him as one of Ranji Trophy's most valuable all-rounders.

A Milestone for the Ages

Saxena's dual milestone is a testament to his versatility and endurance over nearly two decades of First-Class cricket. Known for his consistent off-spin and reliable batting, Saxena's achievement reflects the dedication and resilience he has shown season after season.
Few players have reached such a dual accomplishment in Indian domestic cricket, making his place in the Ranji Trophy record books truly remarkable. In terms of statistics, Jalaj's achievements in the Ranji Trophy circuit surpass those of other all-rounders, even surpassing those of the great Vijay Hazare, Madan Lal, Sunil Joshi, and others.
Jalaj Saxena's historic achievement will be remembered as a defining moment in the Ranji Trophy. His journey from Madhya Pradesh to becoming a mainstay for Kerala has been one of dedication and remarkable skill. As he continues to add to his impressive stats this season, Saxena remains an inspiration to cricketers across India.
His contribution to the Ranji Trophy will undoubtedly be celebrated for years to come, marking him as one of the most influential figures in Indian domestic cricket.