Former India head coach Ravi Shastri believes that the veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja should be selected in the Indian squad for the ODI World Cup 2027 after the 36-year-old was not selected in the Shubman Gill-led squad for the Australia series.
Ravi Shastri wants Ravindra Jadeja in 2027 WC squad
Despite missing spot in the Australia series, Jadeja is in brilliant form, particularly in red-ball cricket. He delivered back-to-back dominant performances in the Test series against England and the West Indies. BCCI selected fellow spin-bowling all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar in the white ball series against Australia. However, Shastri said that Jadeja’s experience and composure under pressure make him indispensable for India’s long-term plans.
"2027 everyone talks. Do not discount or write off Ravindra Jadeja. He will be in the mix, there is no question about that. He's still fielding like he is 7-8 years younger than what he is. It is just a privilege to watch him chase a ball on the field. I can understand (why he was not selected) in Australia because there is Axar, and there are only 3 matches, but come South Africa, where you have to play in different venues against different teams, both of them might play," Ravi Shastri said on the ICC Review.
Ricky Ponting for Ravindra Jadeja
Australian legend Ricky Ponting praised Jadeja for his exceptional fitness and adaptability, noting that the all-rounder continues to evolve his game even in the latter stages of his career.
"I think I need to get some of what he is taking, because he does not seem to be ageing at all. He's the modern-day Benjamin Button. I know he picked me off a couple of times when he first started. Warney always told us about him from the start, and once again, he was not wrong. It is hard to say that he is the best fielder of all time, but you put him right there in the absolute upper echelon," said Ponting.
India vs Australia white ball series
Notably, the ODI series between India and Australia has started, where the visitors lost the first clash by seven wickets as. India will now face Australia for the second clash on October 23 at Adelaide Oval. After finishing the ODI series, India will take on Australia for the five-match T20I series, which will start from October 29, and the first clash will take place at Manuka Oval