Ahead of the highly-anticipated ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023, former India opener Gautam Gambhir has spotlighted the crucial role all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja must play for India's success. Hosting the grand event this October and November, India is keen on clinching their third ODI World Cup title.
Gambhir, while conversing with Star Sports, emphasized that Jadeja needs to leverage his batting skills to secure match-winning performances in the World Cup. This comes in the backdrop of India's triumphant run in the Asia Cup 2023, where they clinched a record-extending eighth title by defeating Sri Lanka by 10 wickets.
"If Ishan Kishan plays at No. 5, there are question marks there as well. So Ravindra Jadeja will have to win matches with his batting ability because you might have a situation where you need 80 or 90 runs in 10 overs and the No. 6 and No. 7 batters might be playing together," said Gambhir.
"Ravindra Jadeja has the ability but it is still debatable against top-quality bowling. The way he has contributed, no doubt he will fit in any playing XI, but India will be happy if Ravindra Jadeja is seen in good hitting form. There is a massive difference between good batting form and good hitting form," he added.
However, Jadeja's contributions during the Asia Cup were not significant in terms of runs, with the all-rounder garnering only 25 runs across three innings. Gambhir pointed out that while Jadeja possesses commendable batting prowess, its efficacy against top-tier bowling line-ups remains a matter of debate. Additionally, he highlighted the evident gap in India's ability to forge partnerships in the lower order during the Asia Cup.
"You can go in and hang in there, you can build a partnership, but if you need 90 runs in the last 10 overs, you should have the ability to score 40 of the 90 runs in that partnership. That was missing somewhere or the other in this tournament," said Gambhir.
With the World Cup's commencement on October 5, Team India and their fans are optimistic about adding another feather to their cricketing cap.
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