Jaydev Unadkat Player Profile

Jaydev Unadkat is a left-arm fast bowler from Saurashtra who made his mark early in his career. He impressed in the 2010 India Under-19 World Cup and earned an IPL contract with Kolkata Knight Riders. Unadkat also had a dream first-class debut, taking 13 wickets against West Indies A during the UK tour. That same year, he played his first Test match in Centurion but went wicketless. He had to wait another 12 years for another chance at international cricket.

Breakthrough Moments in Domestic Cricket

Unadkat’s breakthrough came during India A’s tour of New Zealand in 2012-13. He picked up nine List-A wickets at an average of 15.77. This performance helped him gain recognition in the IPL, where he played for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Unadkat’s consistency also earned him a place in India’s tour of Zimbabwe in 2013. He made his ODI debut there and took eight wickets in five matches.

Return to Form After Injury

In 2014, Jaydev Unadkat suffered a stress fracture, which kept him out of action for a while. However, he made a strong comeback in the 2015-16 Ranji Trophy season, claiming 40 wickets. He starred in the semi-final with 11 wickets against Assam, helping Saurashtra secure a win. His strong domestic form earned him another IPL contract, this time with Kolkata Knight Riders. In 2018, Rajasthan Royals bought him for INR 11.5 crores, though his performances dipped in the following seasons.

Dominant in Domestic Cricket

In 2019, Unadkat played a pivotal role in Saurashtra’s first-ever Ranji Trophy title, claiming 67 wickets in ten matches. He even took ten wickets in the semi-final against Gujarat. He was key again in the 2022-23 season, taking nine wickets in the final, leading his team to another title. However, he struggled in Test cricket, going wicketless in two matches against the West Indies.

Jaydev Unadkat IPL Factfile

• Jaydev Unadkat began his IPL career in 2009 and has played for eight teams.
• In 2017, he took 24 wickets in 12 matches for Rising Pune Supergiant, helping them reach the final.
• He was bought by Rajasthan Royals in 2018 for INR 11.5 crores, though his form declined in subsequent seasons.
• In 2024, he played for Sunrisers Hyderabad. For IPL 2025, he was bought back for the 13th time, the most by any player in an auction.

Jaydev Unadkat remains an important figure in Indian cricket. His match-winning performances in domestic competitions and the IPL showcase his talent and determination.