India’s recent Team announced for ODI series against Australia There has been widespread discussion, especially regarding the absence of experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Despite being fit and available, Jadeja’s omission from the 15-man squad has sparked controversy – and Ravichandran Ashwin’s candid opinion has further fueled the debate.
R Ashwin believes Ravichandran Jadeja’s ouster sends a clear message
Reacting to the development, R Ashwin gave a candid assessment of his long-time teammate’s omission, suggesting that the selectors have moved on from Jadeja in the ODI setup.
Speaking on Vimal Kumar’s YouTube channel, Ashwin said that the decision clearly reflects India’s long-term planning for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.
“They have dropped Ravindra Jadeja. It’s a clear instruction that they are not considering him for the next 50-over World Cup.” Ashwin commented. “There are about 10 ODIs to be played before the tournament. If you don’t pick him now, when will he play? I think it’s clear that Axar [Patel] Will play the next World Cup.”
Ashwin, who has formed several match-winning partnerships with Jadeja in Test cricket, acknowledged the visionary approach of the selectors but also hinted that this could be the end of Jadeja’s ODI journey.
Selectors have chosen young spin options for Australia tour
Indian selectors led by Ajit Agarkar named Akshar PatelWashington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav are the three spin options for the upcoming Australia ODI. The exclusion of Jadeja, who played 204 ODIs, scored over 2,700 runs and took 227 wickets, marked a major change in India’s approach towards building a squad for the next World Cup cycle.
Agarkar, while addressing the media after the squad announcement, clarified that Jadeja remains part of India’s overall ODI plans, but the current selection was based on the balance of the team and the expected conditions in Australia. However, Ashwin’s explanation is different, suggesting that the decision signals a generational change.
Also read: Ajit Agarkar spoke openly on Ravindra Jadeja’s exclusion from the ODI team for Australia tour.
End of an era for Jadeja in ODIs?
Jadeja, who is set to retire from T20 Internationals in 2024, continues to represent India in Tests and ODIs. He was a key part of India’s Champions Trophy-winning campaign earlier this year, and was present in every match, including the final. Nevertheless, his exclusion from the Australia tour despite being in form and free from injury has led fans and pundits to question the move.
Ashwin believes India’s strategy focuses on grooming young players like Axar and Washington Sundar, who bring similar skill sets but offer longevity and flexibility for future tournaments. “They are clearly moving towards the next cycle,” Ashwin stressed that although change is difficult, it is necessary for the development of the team.
With only a few ODI matches left before the next ICC World Cup in 2027, it appears that the India management is fast working on its succession planning. The inclusion of emerging spinners and rotation of senior players points to a clear strategy of early experimentation and building team depth.
Also read: Mohammed Shami’s reaction on not being selected for Australia series goes viral: “All I can say is…”
