Ravindra Jadeja’s future in India’s ODI setup has come under scrutiny as the team management looks to build a competitive squad for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. The veteran all-rounder struggled to make an impact in the first two ODIs against the West Indies and was subsequently left out of the playing XI for the third match in New Chandigarh. India captain Shubman Gill clarified that Jadeja had been rested rather than dropped. However, his omission from India’s squad for the upcoming ODI tour of New Zealand has raised fresh questions about his long-term role in the 50-over format.
According to a report by The Times of India, India are considering alternatives to Jadeja ahead of the 2027 World Cup, with Axar Patel reportedly leading the race for the left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder’s position. Washington Sundar, Harsh Dubey and Shahbaz Ahmed are also among the options being considered by the team management.
A source quoted in the report explained why Axar could have an advantage over the experienced Jadeja. “He is not in India’s scheme of things for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Axar and Washington were playing in the Asian Games, whereas Harsh Dubey and Shahbaz Ahmed are at the CoE because they were injured. And when it comes to the left-arm spin all-rounder option, Axar is ahead of Jadeja. Axar has more wicket-taking ability and can bat as a floater from No. 4 to No. 7 in the middle overs. By no means is he inferior when it comes to fielding.”
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Jadeja’s recent ODI numbers have added to the concerns surrounding his place in the team. He managed only two wickets in the first two matches against West Indies and didn’t get a chance to bat before being left out of the third game.
Since the 2023 ODI World Cup, Ravindra Jadeja has played 15 of India’s 32 ODIs, claiming 14 wickets at an average of 47.92 and an economy rate of 5.20. His returns have been particularly modest over the past 12 months, during which he has taken only one wicket in seven ODIs.
Ravindra Jadeja’s career showcases versatility and calm under pressure. Across formats, he consistently displays discipline, adaptability, and relentless drive.
@imjadeja #BattingBrigade #RavindraJadeja https://t.co/wZk1kLNfsQ— Dhanraj Nathwani (@DhanrajNathwani) October 17, 2026
The veteran spinner has also struggled to complete his full quota of 10 overs in several matches against New Zealand and South Africa. Since the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, he has picked up just five wickets in eight matches, with his economy rate exceeding six runs per over.
Jadeja’s batting has traditionally been an important part of his value as an all-rounder. However, he has scored only 149 runs in 10 ODI innings since the 2023 World Cup and has not registered a half-century in the format for six years. Across 212 ODI appearances, he has accumulated 13 half-centuries in 142 innings.
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With the 2027 World Cup approaching, India’s selectors will have to assess whether Ravindra Jadeja’s experience and all-round ability outweigh his recent returns. Axar’s versatility and the emergence of other spin-bowling options could make the competition for places increasingly difficult for the veteran.
