Ravi Shastri explains why Ravindra Jadeja should feature in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad
THE ICC ODI World Cup 2027 promises to bring new challenges to the teams as they adapt to the diverse conditions across the African continent. With the tournament expected to feature a mix of pace-friendly pitches, turning tracks and high-altitude venues, selectors are already planning to build balanced teams that can thrive in all circumstances. Against this backdrop, discussions around India’s potential line-up have intensified, and one name that continues to spark debate is that of the veteran all-rounder. Ravindra Jadeja.
Ravi Shastri explains why Ravindra Jadeja should play ODI World Cup 2027
Former India coach Ravi Shastri has backed Jadeja to remain an integral part of India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, citing his remarkable fitness, agility and all-round prowess as reasons why the veteran cricketer should not be written off.
In a recent episode of ICC Review, Shastri heaped praise on the veteran all-rounder, describing him as a once-in-a-generation player whose impact goes far beyond the scoreboard. Despite the emergence of young spin bowling all-rounders like Axar PatelShastri believes that Jadeja’s experience and versatility make him indispensable for a global tournament like the 2027 World Cup, which will be held in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.
Shastri, who coached India during some of Jadeja’s finest years across formats, made his stance clear that the Saurashtra all-rounder still has a lot to offer.
“2027, everyone is talking. Don’t overlook or dismiss Ravindra Jadeja. He will be in the mix, no doubt about it. He still plays like he is 7-8 years younger than he is. It’s just a privilege to watch him chase a ball down the field,” Shastri said.
The former coach also acknowledged the selection dynamics that may have seen Jadeja miss the recent limited-overs tours, particularly the short ODI series in Australia, where India opted for Axar Patel due to team balance and conditions. However, Shastri pointed out that the equation could change in South Africa, where conditions vary by location.
“I can understand (why he wasn’t selected) in Australia because there is Axar, and there are only 3 matches, but come to South Africa, where you have to play in different venues against different teams, both could play,” he added.
A modern-day Benjamin Button
Echoing Shastri’s admiration, the former Australian captain Ricky Ponting also praised Jadeja, comparing his seemingly timeless energy and athleticism to the fictional character. Benjamin Bouton. Ponting further highlighted Jadeja’s unmatched prowess on the field, noting that his reflexes and anticipation set him apart from most modern cricketers.
“I think I need to get a bit of what he’s taking because he doesn’t seem to be aging at all. He’s the modern-day Benjamin Button. It’s hard to say he’s the best defender of all time, but you put him right there in the absolute upper echelon,” Ponting remarked.
Also READ: Ricky Ponting reveals how Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli can cement their places in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad
