(AFP Photo)

Star Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, boasting 2756 runs and 220 wickets in 197 ODIs, has been given a rest, not dropped, from India’s ODI squad for the upcoming three-match series against Sri Lanka. 

Initial reports suggesting the 35-year-old was dropped were clarified by ESPNCricinfo on Sunday, confirming Jadeja’s temporary absence is a strategic decision. Selectors reaffirmed his pivotal role as India’s primary spin-bowling all-rounder, attributing the break to reasons outlined by the BCCI.

“Both the selectors and Gambhir are keen to give Axar Patel a chance in ODIs and see if he can play the same role he has successfully performed in T20Is. With just three ODIs in the Sri Lanka series, the selectors and Gambhir agreed that having two left-arm spin-bowling allrounders would be a surplus,” the report said.

“The second reason is that Jadeja is a key member of India’s Test line-up both home and away, a crucial cog in balancing their XI. India are scheduled to play 10 Tests—five at home and five in Australia—from September 2023 to January 2024, and they are looking to keep Jadeja, who is 35 and has missed a number of matches with injury over the last three years, as fresh as possible for those matches.”

Alongside Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav’s absence from the T20I squad followed his impressive performance of 10 wickets in five matches during the T20 World Cup 2024 for India.

Reports clarify that Kuldeep, like Jadeja, has been rested rather than dropped, affirming his role as India’s primary spinner in T20 cricket.

“Yes, Kuldeep, who is part of the ODI squad, has been given a break from the T20Is and remains India’s frontline spinner in that format. The selectors want Ravi Bishnoi to gain more experience and believe he is the best option to be India’s second wrist-spinner behind Kuldeep,” the report said.

Kuldeep Yadav is set to spearhead India’s spin bowling unit during the upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka.