Ravindra Jadeja Positive After ODI Exclusion, Says Winning 2027 World Cup Is the Goal

Star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has been given a rest for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, starting on October 19. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained that the team didn’t need two left-arm spinners, as Axar Patel is already part of the squad.

Though this decision led to some talk about Jadeja’s ODI future, especially with India starting their plans for the 2027 World Cup, he still seems to be very much in the team’s plans.

After Day 2 of the Test series against the West Indies, Ravindra Jadeja said he had a good talk with head coach Gautam Gambhir and new ODI captain Shubman Gill. They assured him that he is part of India’s future plans. Jadeja said he feels positive again and wants to help India win the 2027 ODI World Cup.

“See, this is not in my hands. I mean, I want to play the World Cup, of course, but at the end of the day, there’s some thinking from the team management, selectors, coach, and captain — why they didn’t keep me in this series. There must be some reason behind it. And they spoke to me — it’s not like I got a surprise when the team was announced, that I’m not there. So that’s a good thing, that the captain, selector, and coach spoke to me about what they were thinking and the reason behind it. So I’m happy about that,” Jadeja said in the press conference.

Jadeja reflects on ODI omission, aims to fulfill World Cup dream in 2027

Jadeja said he will be ready to perform whenever he gets the chance. He added that winning the World Cup remains his main goal, especially after India fell short in the last edition, losing to Australia by six wickets in the final.

“But whenever the next opportunity comes, obviously, I’ll try to do what I’ve been doing all these years. And like you said about the major tournament — the World Cup — if I get a chance there, before that there are quite a few ODIs. If I do well in those and get the opportunity, obviously it’ll be good for Indian cricket. And yes, winning the World Cup is everyone’s dream. Last time in the 50-over World Cup, we fell short by a little, so this time, if possible, we’ll try to finish what was left incomplete," said Jadeja.

ALSO SEE:  IND W vs AUS W 13th ODI: Where to Watch India W vs Australia W, H2H, Playing 11 & Full Match Details