India's squad that beat Pakistan in Bangalore in the 1996 World Cup: Where are they now?

#6 Ajay Jadeja

Jadeja’s quickfire 45 helped India to an imposing total

Ajay Jadeja hit probably his most famous knock in this very match. He smashed an incredible 45 off just 25 balls to propel India to an imposing 287. What makes this knock even more special is his part in smashing Waqar Younis for 40 runs in his last two overs (48^th and 50^th). This knock made him the poster boy of Indian cricket overnight as he struck as many as two sixers and four boundaries in this enterprising knock.

This knock was pivotal to the final result, as he smashed one of the finest fast bowlers of the time to all corners of the Chinnaswamy in the death overs. Tony Greig’s words of, “India have got 22 runs in an over they would have been happy with 6” still echo to this day.

He was famous for his fielding and finishing abilities. But his cricketing career, like his captain’s, was also marred by match-fixing allegations. While his ban was reverted in 2003, he didn’t go on to play too many games for India post the incident.

He has acted in a few films and also participated in reality shows; he, in fact, acted in a movie with Vinod Kambli in 2009. He was also appointed the coach for Delhi, but chose to resign from the post. He is now more popular in his role as a cricket commentator and analyst for various channels.