'Play well, that's all the reward I need': Ajay Jadeja's kind act for Afghanistan team wins hearts

Ajay Jeja, who did a tremendous job in shaping Afghanistan into a world-beater side in ICC ODI World Cup 2023, did not accept any payment for services he rendered as team's mentor. Afghanistan exceeded expectations in previous year's ODI World Cup held in India. Although anticipated to perform reasonably well in Indian conditions, ir triumph over cricketing giants came as a surprise to many.

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Ajay Jeja did not accept any payment to mentor Afghanistan team in ODI World Cup 2023

Under leership of Hashmatullah Shahidi, Afghanistan astounded cricketing fraternity with ir stellar performance in 50-over World Cup. Despite initial setbacks with two losses against Banglesh and India, y swiftly rebounded. ir campaign gained momentum with a resounding victory over defending champions England.

Subsequent wins against Pakistan and Sri Lanka furr solidified Afghanistan's standing. Even against Australia, y held a commanding position until Glenn Maxwell's remarkable double-century turned tide in favor of eventual champions. Ultimately, Afghanistan secured a commendable sixth place in points table, leaving a lasting impression on tournament.

Former Indian batsman Ajay Jeja received significant recognition for Afghanistan's bold performance in ODI World Cup. Hired as a mentor just before tournament, Jeja's influence proved instrumental. Throughout event, Afghanistan's he coach Jonathon Trott attributed much of team's success to Jeja, stating:

"I think Ajay brings a lot of experience having played a lot of cricket in India. He's always a good sounding board with regards to conditions, venues and also or subcontinent teams that we've played against."

Ajay Jeja is poised to receive furr acclaim following a recent disclosure by Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) CEO Naseeb Khan. Khan revealed that Jeja provided his mentoring services to team without charging any fee. "If you play well, that's all reward I need," Jeja expressed to ACB.