2027 ICC ODI World Cup It promises to bring new challenges for the teams as they adapt to the diverse conditions across the African continent. The tournament is expected to feature a mix of pace-friendly pitches, turning tracks and high altitude venues, with the selectors already hoping to create a balanced team capable of succeeding in all conditions. In this context, discussions have intensified about India’s probable lineup, and one name that is giving rise to debate is that of the experienced all-rounder. Ravindra Jadeja,
Ravi Shastri explains why Ravindra Jadeja should play 2027 ODI World Cup
Former head coach of India Ravi Shastri He has backed Jadeja to remain an integral part of India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, citing his remarkable fitness, agility and all-round skills as reasons why the experienced cricketer should not be overlooked.
In the recent episode of ICC Review, Shastri praised the veteran all-rounder and described him as a once-in-a-generation player whose impact goes far beyond the scorecard. Despite the emergence of young spin-bowling all-rounders such as Akshar PatelShastri believes Jadeja’s experience and versatility make him indispensable for global tournaments like the 2027 World Cup to be held in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
Shastri, who coached India during some of Jadeja’s best years across all formats, made his stance clear: the Saurashtra all-rounder still has a lot to offer.
“2027 is what everyone talks about. Don’t ignore or dismiss Ravindra Jadeja. He will be in the mix, no doubt about it. He is still fielding like he is 7-8 years younger than him. It is a privilege to see him chasing the ball on the field.” Shastri said.
The former coach also acknowledged the selection dynamics which may have caused Jadeja to miss the recent limited-overs tours, especially the short ODI series in Australia, where India picked Axar Patel due to team balance and conditions. However, Shastri stressed that the equations may change in South Africa, where conditions are different in different places.
“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 at different venues against different teams, maybe play both,” He added.
A modern day Benjamin Button
Former Australian captain reiterating Shastri’s praise ricky ponting Also, he praised Jadeja highly and compared his everlasting energy and athleticism to that of the fictional character benjamin buttonPonting highlighted Jadeja’s unmatched ability on the field and said that his alertness and anticipation set him apart from most modern cricketers.
Ponting commented, “I think I need to get something out of what he’s got, because he doesn’t look old at all. He’s a modern-day Benjamin Button. It’s hard to say he’s the best fielder of all time, but you’ve put him absolutely in the top flight.”
