Ravichandran Ashwin opines on Ravindra Jadeja’s exclusion from Australia series: “They are not looking at him for the next 50-over World Cup”

Table of Contents

India’s recent squad announcement for the ODI series against Australia has sparked widespread discussion, particularly surrounding the absence of veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. Despite being fit and available, Jadeja’s exclusion from the 15-member team has raised eyebrows – and Ravichandran Ashwin’s candid take has added further fuel to the debate.

Reacting to the development, R Ashwin gave a blunt 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 stated that the decision clearly reflects India’s long-term planning for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup.

“They have dropped Ravindra Jadeja. It is a clear direction that they are not looking at him for the next 50-over World Cup,” Ashwin remarked. “There are about 10 ODIs to go before the tournament. If you do not pick him now, when does he play? I think it’s clear that Axar [Patel] will play the next World Cup.”

Ashwin, who has shared numerous match-winning partnerships with Jadeja in Test cricket, acknowledged the selectors’ forward-looking approach but also hinted that this could be the end of Jadeja’s ODI journey.

The Indian selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, named Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav as the three spin options for the upcoming Australia ODIs. The omission of Jadeja – who has played 204 ODIs, scoring over 2,700 runs and taking 227 wickets – marked a major shift in India’s approach toward building a team 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 team balance and conditions expected in Australia. However, Ashwin’s interpretation differs, suggesting that the decision signals a generational change.

Also READ: Ajit Agarkar opens up on Ravindra Jadeja’s exclusion from ODI squad for Australia tour

Jadeja, who retired from T20 internationals in 2024, has continued to represent India in Tests and ODIs. He was a crucial part of India’s Champions Trophy-winning campaign earlier this year, featuring in every match, including the final. Yet, his exclusion from the Australia tour despite being in form and injury-free has left fans and pundits questioning the move.

Ashwin believes that India’s strategy is focused on grooming younger players like Axar and Washington Sundar, who bring similar skill sets but offer longevity and flexibility for future tournaments. “They are clearly building towards the next cycle,” Ashwin said, emphasizing that the transition, though difficult, is necessary for the team’s evolution.

With only a handful of ODIs remaining before the next ICC World Cup in 2027, India’s management appears to be fast-tracking its succession planning. The inclusion of emerging spinners and the rotation of senior players point to a clear strategy of early experimentation and squad depth building.

Also READ: Mohammed Shami’s reaction to non-selection for the Australia series goes viral: “I will just say that…”