Pujara Questions Jadejas Future in ODI Team After Exclusion

New Delhi, October 31 (Daily Kiran) : India's star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja's future in the One Day International (ODI) team appears uncertain following his omission from the squad for the upcoming five-match series against New Zealand. Former Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has voiced his concerns, suggesting that Jadeja may find it challenging to return to the team.

During a discussion with Abhishek Nayar, Pujara noted that Axar Patel has emerged as the preferred left-arm spinner for the Indian team. With just a year remaining until the ODI World Cup, Jadeja's absence raises questions about his prospects in international cricket, especially in foreign conditions. Pujara remarked that Jadeja's path back to the team seems blocked, as Patel has overtaken him in the selection hierarchy. He stated on 'GeoStar', "I feel this way because if you wanted to keep Ravindra Jadeja in ODI cricket, he should have been selected.

I'm sure he has been informed that his selection is uncertain, as Axar Patel has become the main all-rounder in ODIs and is getting more opportunities." Considering Jadeja's age, Pujara speculated that the team management may have indicated that he should focus solely on Test cricket, as they no longer view him as a viable option for white-ball formats. He added, "This could be the end for him, especially since he has already retired from T20 Internationals. I think he may not be selected for ODIs anymore." However, Nayar believes that Jadeja still serves as an "insurance policy" for the Indian team and could step in as a backup for Axar Patel during the World Cup.

Nayar stated, "Jadeja may not return to the team, but if a player gets injured, he would be the first name that comes to mind. After Axar, there are no other options." He further emphasized, "The crucial question now is, who is next after Axar? Currently, Axar Patel is leading, and Jadeja is somewhat like an insurance policy. If anything happens to Axar before the World Cup, Ravindra Jadeja will be called up." India's critical ODI series against New Zealand is set to commence on November 4.

This series presents an excellent opportunity for the Indian team to test themselves against a strong opponent in challenging conditions, as they prepare for major tournaments in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia next year.