Team India's premier spin-bowling all-rounder, Ravindra Jadeja, has been left out of the ODI squad for the upcoming Sri Lanka series. Despite his consistent performances in the 50-over format, head coach Gautam Gambhir has opted to include veteran stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the squad for the tour to the island nation.
A recent report suggests that Jadeja may no longer be part of Team India's plans for white-ball cricket, following his retirement from T20Is. It appears unlikely that selectors will consider him for future ODI matches.
"There are only six ODIs, including the three in Sri Lanka, before next year's Champions Trophy. The selectors want to utilise the handful of games by giving more opportunities to Axar Patel and Washington Sundar," a BCCI source told Hindustan Times.
Ravindra Jadeja has proven to be a standout performer for the Indian cricket team since the 2019 ODI World Cup. In the 44 matches he has played since then, Jadeja has showcased his prowess with both bat and ball. He has amassed an impressive total of 644 runs at an average of 40, with a striking strike rate of 84. Additionally, Jadeja has excelled in the bowling department, claiming a total of 44 wickets at an average of 37, while maintaining an exceptional economy rate of 4.9. Jadeja's consistent and all-round performance has undoubtedly been a valuable asset to the Indian team.
"Nothing wrong with Jadeja's performance. The management just wants to look at other options as we have to build a team for the future," the source admitted, refusing to blame Jadeja's performances as the reason behind his exclusion.
In white-ball cricket, Axar Patel has surpassed Jadeja in the spin-bowling all-rounders role, with Washington Sundar also receiving strong support from head coach Gautam Gambhir and selectors. Currently, Jadeja finds himself lower in the pecking order compared to Axar and Washington.
Although the opportunities in ODIs may be dwindling for Jadeja, he continues to be a vital asset to the team in Test matches, particularly with the ICC World Test Championship in consideration.
"Jadeja is outstanding in Test cricket. His bowling in home conditions is unmatchable. He will be important for India's World Test Championship bid," the report said.
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