The reason behind the exclusion of star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja from India’s ODI team for the forthcoming series against Australia has been revealed by chief selector Ajit Agarkar. On Saturday, October 4, the teams for the Down Under series were revealed.
When it comes to the ODI setup, Agarkar admitted that Jadeja is undoubtedly necessary. He did acknowledge, though, that given the difficulties of Australian conditions, the all-rounder was not required.
“He is definitely part of the plans. However, competition for spots will exist. He was obviously included in the Champions Trophy team because, given the current conditions, we could only carry one spinner and achieve some balance in the team with Washi (Washington) and Kuldeep (Yadav) there. Agarkar said, “I don’t think we’re going to need more than that in Australia spin.”
In the current series between India and the West Indies, Ravindra Jadeja is the vice-captain of the Test team. Ravindra Jadeja versatility and all-around skill were commended by Agarkar.
But given his skill and what he brings us as a bowler and batsman, especially in the field, Ravindra Jadeja is obviously in the bigger picture. It’s a brief series with only three matches. Not everyone can be accommodated. And regrettably, he’s missing out right now,” he continued.
Ravindra Jadeja has already put up his boots from the shortest format, for those who are unaware.
He has participated in 204 ODIs for India in addition to 86 Test matches and 74 T20Is. Jadeja has taken 231 wickets at an economy rate of 4.85 and averages 32.62 with the bat in the 50-over format.
Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, both spin all-rounders, will accompany Kuldeep Yadav, the Men in Blue’s lone specialist spinner. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will also be included in the 50-over team. The start date of the series is set for Sunday, October 19.