Jadeja dedicates Player of the Match award to wife Rivaba, Gujarat Education Minister, after all-round show in LSG win

Ravindra Jadeja once again proved why he remains one of the most valuable players in the IPL, delivering a crucial all-round performance in Lucknow Super Giants’ victory over Rajasthan Royals on Sunday. The veteran all-rounder made a decisive impact with both bat and in the field, earning him the ‘Player of the Match’ award — an honour he immediately dedicated to his wife, Rivaba Jadeja.

Batting at number five in a tense middle-order situation, Jadeja anchored the LSG innings with a composed 43 off 29 balls. His knock included smart strike rotation and timely boundaries that helped LSG build momentum through the middle overs. But his contribution wasn’t limited to the bat. Jadeja also produced a stunning catch in the outfield that shifted the game’s momentum, underlining his reputation as one of the safest pairs of hands in world cricket.

For his impactful performance with bat and in the field, Jadeja was named ‘Player of the Match’ at the post-match presentation. While accepting the award, the 37-year-old surprised many when he said he was dedicating it to “the Gujarat government’s Education Minister.” The statement briefly puzzled fans and commentators alike, sparking curiosity on social media about the unusual dedication.

The mystery, however, was cleared up moments later. Jadeja was referring to his wife, Rivaba Jadeja, who currently serves as Gujarat’s Minister for Primary, Secondary, and Higher Education. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel had handed over the education portfolio to Rivaba during a recent cabinet reshuffle. A BJP MLA from Jamnagar North, Rivaba took oath as a cabinet minister earlier this year and has been handling the key education department since.

Elaborating on the dedication, Jadeja said his wife has been a constant source of motivation throughout his career. “She always pushes me to do better, on and off the field. She told me before the game to stay calm and play my natural game. This award is for her and the work she’s doing for education in Gujarat,” he said with a smile.

Jadeja’s gesture quickly drew praise online, with fans appreciating the all-rounder for acknowledging his wife’s public service alongside his cricketing achievements. The win helped LSG climb the IPL 2026 points table, with Jadeja’s experience once again proving vital in a tight contest.

Rivaba Jadeja, who married the cricketer in 2016, entered politics in 2022 and won the Jamnagar North seat in the Gujarat Assembly elections. Her elevation to the education ministry has made her one of the most prominent faces in the state cabinet.