Team India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja could be phased out across formats after the Border-Gavaskar series. The team management has not been convinced of his inconsistent and off-color displays across formats for a while. The team is looking to build a solid core for the 2027 ODI World Cup and is unsure whether the all-rounder fits the profile.
Jadeja announced his retirement from T20Is after the 2024 T20 World Cup, while his last ODI came during the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup. He has not been the complete all-rounder that India have desired for so long in the lower middle order. In ODIs, he has struggled to create an impact with the bat. His strike rotation and ability to relieve pressure have been questioned consistently in the recent past.
Jadeja was not included in the ODI squad for the Sri Lanka tour, while other spin-bowling all-rounders like Riyan Parag, Axar Patel, and Washington Sundar took part. On that occasion, the selectors assured the veteran was rested and not dropped from the side.
"Gambhir has been very assertive about creating core teams according to formats. As of now, he hasn't quite tinkered with the longer formats but has a clear vision for creating a strong base for the ODI World Cup. He is keen on giving exposure to a few more identified players," a BCCI source told TOI.
"It's all about when the selectors decide the transition needs to kick in. They will discuss if they want to go with a safe option in Jadeja or move on right now," the source added. Even in Test cricket, he has struggled to get going, though his bowling has been steady. There is an urge to move on from him, especially in the ODI format. It will be a tough call in the coming days." the source added
Jadeja was not considered for the first half of the Border-Gavaskar series in Australia. Included for the third Test in Brisbane, he scored a crucial half-century but ended the tour with mediocre displays in Melbourne and Sydney.
Ravindra Jadeja still in contention for Champions Trophy and England tour
No knee-jerk reaction is expected in Jadeja's case, as the team management values his experience and prowess. With India playing their 2025 Champions Trophy matches in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), spinners will be in demand.
Jadeja is also in the scheme of things for the England tour, with his promising record in the country. India need one frontline spinner in the playing XI, and since Ravichandran Ashwin has announced his retirement, the left-arm spinner leads the race.
"When it comes to Test cricket, Jadeja is still fairly in contention for the England tour due to lack of experience in the middle order. But the selectors will have to take a call during the home season. For the Champions Trophy, selectors will be aware that pitches in Dubai have historically been helpful to slow bowlers," the source said.
Jadeja will also play the IPL 2025 season for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) after being retained ahead of the mega auction.
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