Ravindra Jadeja’s place in India’s ODI setup has reportedly come under scrutiny ahead of the 2027 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, with Axar Patel emerging as a strong contender for the spin-bowling all-rounder’s spot. According to a report by The Times of India, selectors are considering their options as India begin looking ahead to the next World Cup, which will be hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
Jadeja has been one of India’s most experienced all-rounders, contributing with both bat and ball across formats. However, his recent performances have raised questions about his place in the ODI team, while competition from younger options has increased.
The report suggests that Jadeja may no longer be part of the selectors’ plans for the 2027 tournament. However, this has not been confirmed as a final decision, and his future will depend on his performances and the team’s requirements in the coming months.
Ravindra Jadeja’s recent performances raise questions
Jadeja was left out of India’s playing XI for the third ODI against the West Indies after featuring in the first two matches. India’s captain, Shubman Gill, reportedly explained that the decision was made to give other players an opportunity.
Jadeja took two wickets across the first two matches and did not get a chance to bat. While being left out of one match does not necessarily indicate a long-term change in plans, it has added to the discussion around his position in the team.
His recent ODI numbers have also drawn attention. According to the figures provided, Jadeja has taken just one wicket in seven ODIs over the past 12 months. His batting returns have also been limited, with 149 runs across 10 ODI innings since the 2023 World Cup.
During the 2023 ODI World Cup, Jadeja played 15 matches for India and took 14 wickets at an average of 47.92. Although his experience remains valuable, the selectors will need to assess whether his current form and overall contribution meet the team’s requirements for the next World Cup.
Axar Patel moves ahead in the race
Axar Patel is reportedly gaining ground in the contest for the spin-bowling all-rounder’s role. His ability to take wickets while contributing useful runs in the middle order makes him an attractive option for the team.
Since the 2023 World Cup, Axar has taken 21 wickets in 19 ODIs at an economy rate of 4.53. He has also scored 437 runs in 18 innings at an average of 29.30, including two half-centuries.
These numbers offer selectors a strong case to consider Axar as they evaluate India’s long-term combination. His flexibility with the bat and ability to contribute with the ball could help the team maintain balance across different match situations.
According to the report, selectors view Axar as a strong option because of his wicket-taking ability and his capacity to bat in different positions. If he continues to deliver consistent performances, he could strengthen his position in India’s plans for the 2027 World Cup.
Washington Sundar and other all-rounders remain options
Axar is not the only player being considered. Washington Sundar is another option for India, while Deepak Hooda and Shahbaz Ahmed have also reportedly been mentioned among the possible contenders.
The availability of several spin-bowling all-rounders gives the selectors more flexibility as they assess combinations for the next major tournament. The final choice is likely to depend on factors such as form, fitness, batting depth, bowling consistency and the conditions expected in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
India’s management will also need to consider how each player fits into the overall balance of the team rather than relying solely on past achievements.
India’s bowling coach backs Jadeja’s improvement
Despite the questions surrounding his future, Jadeja continues to have supporters within the Indian setup. India’s spin-bowling coach, Sairaj Bahutule, has reportedly described him as a valuable player and noted that his bowling had improved over the previous six months.
Jadeja’s experience, fielding and ability to contribute in multiple areas remain important strengths. However, competition for places is becoming stronger, and the team may have to weigh his experience against the form and potential of other players.
At this stage, the reported uncertainty does not mean Jadeja has officially been ruled out of the 2027 ODI World Cup. The selectors still have time to assess performances before making their final decisions.
Will Ravindra Jadeja be part of India’s 2027 World Cup squad?
Jadeja’s reported position in the selectors’ plans has sparked discussion about whether India are preparing to move towards a different combination of spin-bowling all-rounders. Axar Patel’s recent numbers make him a serious contender, while Washington Sundar and other options add further competition.
However, Jadeja’s future will not necessarily be decided by one omission or a short run of performances. Consistency, fitness and the team’s tactical requirements will all play a role as India build towards the 2027 tournament.
For now, the report suggests that Jadeja faces increased competition for his place, with Axar emerging as a leading alternative. Whether this develops into a permanent change will become clearer as India’s ODI plans take shape.
