Ravindra Jadeja’s exclusion from India’s squad for the recent three-match ODI series against Australia raised more than a few eyebrows. While selectors opted to back Axar Patel and Washington Sundar as spin-bowling all-rounders, fans and former players were left questioning the decision—especially considering Jadeja’s proven track record in Australian conditions and his current form in Test cricket.
The move has also fueled speculation around his long-term role in the Indian ODI setup, particularly with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.
Ravi Shastri: “Don’t discount or write off Ravindra Jadeja”
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has made it clear that Jadeja remains central to India’s future white-ball plans.
“2027 everyone talks. Do not discount or write off Ravindra Jadeja. He will be in the mix, there is no question about that. He’s still fielding like he is 7-8 years younger than what he is. It is just a privilege to watch him chase a ball on the field. I can understand (why he was not selected) in Australia because there is Axar, and there are only 3 matches, but come South Africa, where you have to play in different venues against different teams, both of them might play,” Shastri said on the ICC Review.
Despite being left out of the Australia ODIs, Jadeja was part of India’s Champions Trophy-winning squad earlier in the year, underscoring his continuing value to the national setup.
Ponting hails Jadeja’s longevity and fielding genius
Legendary Australian captain Ricky Ponting offered a glowing tribute to Jadeja’s fitness and sustained brilliance in the field, comparing him to the age-reversing fictional character Benjamin Button.
“I think I need to get some of what he is taking, because he does not seem to be ageing at all. He’s the modern day Benjamin Button. I know he picked me off a couple of times when he first started. Warney always told us about him from the start, and once again, he was not wrong. It is hard to say that he is the best fielder of all time, but you put him right there in the absolute upper echelon,” Ponting said.
Ponting’s comments not only reflect Jadeja’s exceptional athleticism but also speak to the respect he commands from legends of the game—even outside of India.
Age-defying brilliance keeps Jadeja in the mix
At 36, Jadeja continues to defy conventional career arcs with his elite-level fitness, lightning reflexes, and versatility across formats. While his ODI future may have hit a brief pause, endorsements from influential voices like Shastri and Ponting reinforce the belief that his time in the Indian jersey is far from over.
For a player once championed by Shane Warne as a future great, the continued backing from cricket’s biggest names only adds weight to the argument: write off Jadeja at your own peril.
