India’s preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, has raised questions about the future of veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in ODI cricket. Under head coach Gautam Gambhir, the team management is reportedly prioritizing building a strong core for the 2027 ODI World Cup, and Jadeja’s recent performances have sparked discussions about his place in the squad.
Jadeja’s ODI Struggles
Ravindra Jadeja’s form in ODI cricket has been under scrutiny. Over the past two years, his strike rate has dropped to 75, and he has struggled to make an impact with the bat at the critical No. 7 position. Although he has delivered a few vital performances in Tests, his diminishing returns in the shorter format led to Axar Patel being preferred over him in India’s ODI series against Sri Lanka last year.
Gautam Gambhir’s Vision for India’s ODI Future
According to a BCCI source, head coach Gautam Gambhir is focused on creating format-specific core teams to ensure long-term success. The Champions Trophy 2025 is seen as a starting point for these preparations.
“Gambhir has been very assertive about creating core teams according to formats. He is keen on giving exposure to a few more identified players for the future,” the source said.
The selectors face a key decision: whether to stick with Jadeja for his experience or transition to younger options like Axar Patel, who has demonstrated significant growth in both batting and bowling.
Jadeja’s Chances for the Champions Trophy
Jadeja’s inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad could hinge on Dubai’s spin-friendly pitches, where India’s matches will be held. However, with Axar Patel performing consistently and being preferred in the T20 World Cup 2024, the selectors may opt for Patel as the left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder.
“Selectors will be aware that pitches in Dubai have historically been helpful to slow bowlers, which could work in Jadeja’s favor,” the source added.
Axar Patel’s Growing Role
Axar Patel is widely regarded as Jadeja’s successor in the ODI setup. Patel’s versatility as a bowler and his ability to contribute with the bat, often being promoted in the batting order, make him a strong candidate for the Champions Trophy squad.
Axar’s performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, where he was Rohit Sharma’s preferred option, has solidified his position. With Kuldeep Yadav likely to regain fitness before the tournament, India’s spin department looks well-equipped even without Jadeja.
Jadeja’s Test Prospects Still Intact
While Jadeja’s ODI future is uncertain, he remains a key player in India’s Test plans, particularly for the England series in June 2025, where his experience could bolster a fragile middle order.
Champions Trophy 2025 Overview
The tournament will be hosted jointly by Pakistan and the UAE, with India’s matches set to take place in Dubai. The selectors are expected to announce the squad in the coming weeks as India aims to strike a balance between experience and fresh talent in their pursuit of ODI glory.
