‘He should be in the scheme of things’ – Kris Srikkanth backs legendary all-rounder for 2027 ODI World Cup

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth has thrown his weight behind veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, urging the Indian team management to keep him in contention for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Jadeja, 37, has been absent from India’s last two ODI assignments against Afghanistan and England, raising questions over his place in the team’s white-ball plans. The left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder last featured in an ODI during the home series against New Zealand, where he endured a difficult outing. He failed to pick up a wicket across the three matches while conceding runs at an economy rate of over six.

Despite that underwhelming series, Jadeja remains one of India’s most dependable ODI performers over the last decade. Srikkanth expressed surprise over the veteran’s omission and insisted that the all-rounder still has plenty to offer if he continues performing.

“I am not sure why Ravindra Jadeja has been totally let go. He only did brilliantly in the 2023 World Cup. He is a silent killer. It’s not like he has announced retirement in ODIs. Yet, he doesn’t play ODIs at all and rarely plays in Tests despite producing match-winning performances when he does. I still believe Jadeja should be in the scheme of things and in the squad if he performs well,” He said, speaking on Star Sports.

Jadeja played a pivotal role in India’s runners-up finish at the 2023 ODI World Cup. Operating as the team’s frontline spin-bowling all-rounder, he claimed 16 wickets and contributed 120 runs in 11 matches, proving his value in both departments.

Srikkanth also shared his views on India’s spin combination for the 2027 ODI World Cup, stating that the team should travel with three specialist spin options.

The former opener believes Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav should be automatic selections if they maintain their form, while the third spinner can be identified closer to the tournament.

“Totally India will need three spinners in the squad for the World Cup. Two should play in the 11 and one in the reserves. Axar Patel will be one and I’ll pick Kuldeep Yadav if he continues to do well. Wrist spinners are always potential match-winners. The third spinner can be decided at a later stage,” he continued.

However, Srikkanth was not convinced about Washington Sundar’s credentials as a specialist spin option for the World Cup squad, despite acknowledging his abilities in the longest format.

“Washington Sundar is a brilliant Test cricketer. But in ODIs, I am not even sure if he has ever bowled his full 10 overs in a match. So he’s doubtful for the squad, especially when there are so many other young spinners that are there.”

Team India recently lost the three-match ODI series against England by a margin of 1-2 despite winning the opening match of the series.