
The world of cricket often sees talents rise to fame, but Jalaj Saxena’s story remains a baffling saga of endurance and commitment. Despite his remarkable performances in domestic cricket, Saxena has never donned the Indian national jersey. During a recent Ranji Trophy match between Maharashtra and Kerala, former selectors Salil Ankola and Chetan Sharma expressed their surprise over Saxena’s absence from the national team.
Saxena has been a stalwart in the Ranji Trophy, holding the record for the most wickets in the tournament’s history while also achieving the impressive milestone of 6,000 runs. Last season, he became the first player to accumulate both 6,000 runs and 400 wickets in his career, showcasing his versatility as an all-rounder.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| First-Class Debut | December 2005 |
| Most Wickets in Ranji Trophy | Record Holder |
| Career Runs | 6,000 |
| Career Wickets | 400 |
Now playing for Maharashtra after a long stint with Kerala, Saxena has stated that he has made peace with not representing India. Yet, cricket enthusiasts and analysts ponder why a player of his caliber remains unselected. His journey reflects countless hours of dedication and resilience, a testament to his love for the game.
As the cricketing world evolves, Saxena’s story resonates more than ever, reminding us of the unpredictability of selection processes in high-level sports. His performance continues to shine in domestic leagues, leaving fans hopeful for a potential future with the Indian team.






