Top Feature/ AFG vs PAK: Ajay Jadeja still hasn't stopped ruining Pakistan's World Cup, 23 years after retirement

AFG vs PAK: In a historic turn of events at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Afghanistan left the cricketing world in awe by securing an unforgettable eight-wicket triumph over Pakistan at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. This victory marked the very first instance in the annals of ODI cricket where Afghanistan had managed to conquer the Men in Green, a team they had previously lost to on seven occasions.

3 things you need to know

• The Afghanistan vs Pakistan match was held in Chennai on Monday
• Afghanistan handed Pakistan a crushing 8-wicket defeat
• Ajay Jadeja, as mentor of the Afghanistan side, celebrates the victory

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Ajay Jadeja is still ruining Pakistan in the World Cup

While the Afghan team etched their name into the history books, an intriguing subplot unfolded. Afghanistan's success had an Indian connection that added a unique twist to their triumphant journey. The catalyst behind their stunning win was none other than their team mentor and assistant coach, the former Indian cricketer captain, Ajay Jadeja. Jadeja stepped into his short-term role with the Afghan side just a week before the tournament commenced, and the impact he had on the team was undeniable.

Following Afghanistan's emphatic victory over Pakistan, Ajay Jadeja's jubilation became a social media sensation. The former Indian skipper, known for his passion and enthusiasm, could not contain his excitement as he celebrated with the players and other members of the coaching staff.

Ajay Jadeja, a name synonymous with cricket heroics, has long been etched in the annals of cricketing history for his remarkable performances against Pakistan. His unforgettable innings against the Men in Green during the 1996 World Cup remains eternally etched in the memories of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Jadeja played an outstanding knock against Pakistan in the 1996 ODI World Cup. He scored a quickfire 45 off just 25 balls including four boundaries and two sixes. His aggressive and explosive innings stood out, especially considering that the era of T20 cricket had not yet been introduced to the world.

(Ajay Jadeja smashed Waqar Younis in the 1996 World Cup. Image: Screengrab)

In a remarkable twist of fate, Pakistan's record against India in the ODI World Cup has remained unblemished, with the Men in Green yet to taste victory in this iconic tournament.

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Jadeja still haunts Pakistan on the World Cup stage

(Ajay Jadeja with Afghanistan cricket team. Image: ACB/X.com)

Now, with Jadeja taking on the role of mentor and assistant coach for the Afghan cricket team, he continues to cast his influence, even 23 years after his retirement, over Pakistan's World Cup campaign. The legacy of his heroics against the arch-rivals lives on as he contributes to Afghanistan's rise in international cricket.

Jadeja's presence in the Afghanistan camp serves as a constant reminder of his extraordinary cricketing prowess, and his connection to Pakistan's World Cup struggles adds a fascinating layer to the ongoing tournament. The fact that he is still influencing the outcome of matches against Pakistan, albeit from a different vantage point, underscores the lasting impact of his cricketing legacy.