Here's why Ravindra Jadeja was not picked for Australia ODIs
What's the story
Ravindra Jadeja's absence from India's ODI squad for the upcoming Australia series has raised eyebrows. However, chief selector Ajit Agarkar has clarified that the decision is purely tactical and not a reflection of Jadeja's form or future prospects. The three-match ODI series will be captained by Shubman Gill and begins on October 19. Here are further details.
Tactical decision
Team balance and conditions
Agarkar explained that Jadeja's omission was due to team balance and conditions for the Australia series. He said, "Right now, we could only take one left-arm spinner for the Australia series. It wasn't possible to fit in two." The management opted for Axar Patel as the left-arm spin option for his batting depth, alongside the wrist-spin variety offered by Kuldeep Yadav. Off-spinning all-rounder Washington Sundar is also a part of the squad.
Future prospects
Jadeja still part of India's long-term plans
Agarkar stressed that Jadeja is still a key part of India's long-term plans, including the 2027 ODI World Cup. He said, "Jadeja's quality is unquestioned. He's very much part of our plans going forward." "He's clearly in the scheme of things because of how good he is and what he offers us as a batter and a bowler, but particularly in the field as well. So, yeah, it's just a three-match, short series," added Agarkar.
Performance review
Jadeja's recent form across formats
Jadeja has been in excellent form across formats. He scored a century and took a four-wicket haul in the recently-concluded first Test vs West Indies in Ahmedabad. Even though he will miss this tour of Australia, Agarkar assured that Jadeja remains very much part of India's ODI plans going forward, with an eye on the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Information
Here are Jadeja's ODI stats
Jadeja has featured in 204 ODIs, taking 231 wickets at an average of 35.41, which includes a couple of five-wicket hauls. His economy of 4.85 is also impressive. With the bat, he has mustered 2,806 runs at an average of 32.62 with the help of 13 fifties.