The 37-year-old Ravindra Jadeja is back in the ODI squad for the first time since January. Since then, he has just been part of the Test side but was not considered for the fifty-over series against Afghanistan and England.

The veteran star has been called up to the squad since Axar Patel is away in Japan for the Asian Games 2025. Former India batter Aakash Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, said that the upcoming series is big for Jadeja if he has to be in contention for a place in the 2027 ODI World Cup squad.

“It is a big chance for Jadeja. One might think, why is he facing any challenge? Considering where he is in his celebrated career, he is not playing much ODI cricket right now, but now that Axar is not there, he has got a chance, and this series is important for him,” Aakash Chopra said.

He also added, “Last time Jadeja played in the ODI format, he wasn’t picking wickets. He will have to bowl all ten overs and take wickets if he has to stay relevant and stay in the race for a spot in the World Cup team. As of now, only Axar or Jadeja will play in the tournament, and the former is slightly ahead.”

Indian coach backs Ravindra Jadeja

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has seen Ravindra Jadeja’s performance from close quarters in the past. Speaking to the media, the52-year-old said that the veteran all-rounder was still in the mix for a place in the World Cup squad.

“He is in the mix. I am not part of the selection panel, so I don’t know what their thinking is, but whoever is part of the team is obviously part of the plans for the World Cup. We all know Jadeja is an amazing all-rounder, and he is still an electric fielder,” said Sitanshu.

Kotak also added, “He bats and bowls, and the experience Ravindra has is something that cannot be beaten. Like Rohit and Virat, Jadeja is a very useful member of the side.”