'I want to play World Cup but...': Ravindra Jadeja breaks silence on ODI snub

All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has finally spoken about his exclusion from India’s squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, beginning on October 19 in Perth. The decision to leave out the veteran spinner surprised many, considering he played a key role in India’s Champions Trophy triumph just eight months ago.

Explaining the selection call earlier, chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated that Jadeja continues to be in India’s plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, but the team management didn’t want to include too many spinners for the Australia tour.

After the second day of the second Test against the West Indies, Jadeja addressed the issue, revealing that the selectors had informed him in advance about their decision.

“It’s not in my hands. Of course, I want to play, but in the end, it’s the decision of the captain, coach, selectors, and management. They must have had their reasons for not including me in the ODI squad for Australia. They did talk to me — it wasn’t a surprise when the team was announced,” Jadeja said.

He also expressed his determination to represent India at the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

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“The captain, coach, and selectors explained their thought process, and I’m satisfied with that. Whenever I get the next opportunity, I’ll give my best. There are plenty of ODIs before the World Cup, and if I perform well, it will be good for Indian cricket,” he added.

Reflecting on India’s loss in the 2023 World Cup final against Australia, Jadeja said that lifting the trophy remains one of his biggest dreams.

“Winning the World Cup is every cricketer’s dream. Last time, we came close but couldn’t finish the job. Hopefully, we can go one step further next time,” he said.

So far, the 36-year-old has featured in 204 ODIs, amassing 2806 runs and taking 231 wickets. In the ongoing Test series against the West Indies, Jadeja impressed again, picking up three wickets on the second day of the second Test as the hosts ended on 140/4, still trailing India by 378 runs.