The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named the squads for the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, with Gautam Gambhir taking over the reins as head coach for the first time.

Youngsters Riyan Parag and Harshit Rana received their maiden ODI call-ups, showcasing the BCCI’s commitment to grooming future talent. However, the most talked-about selection decision involved the star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

Ravindra Jadeja’s ODI exclusion raises eyebrows

Following his retirement from T20Is after India’s World Cup victory, many expected Jadeja to remain a mainstay in the ODI format. However, his absence from the Sri Lanka ODI squad has sparked debate and concern.

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Team management looks to the future

A BCCI source, speaking to Hindustan Times, explained the reasoning behind Jadeja’s exclusion. With only a handful of ODIs before the 2025 Champions Trophy, the selectors reportedly want to “give more opportunities” to all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, both known for their batting abilities.

“There are only six ODIs, including the three in Sri Lanka, before next year’s Champions Trophy. The selectors want to utilise the handful of games by giving more opportunities to Axar Patel and Washington Sundar,” a BCCI source was quoted as saying to HT.

Jadeja’s stellar record ignored?

This decision has left many fans questioning the rationale. Jadeja has been a pillar of India’s ODI team for over a decade, featuring in nearly half of India’s 354 ODIs since his debut in 2009. His all-around prowess is undeniable, with an impressive batting average of 40 and a consistent bowling record. Adding his exceptional fielding to the equation, Jadeja’s value to the team seems undeniable.

“Nothing wrong with Jadeja’s performance. The management just wants to look at other options as we have to build a team for the future,” the source added.

With the Sri Lanka tour on the horizon, the BCCI’s decision regarding Jadeja has cast a shadow over the excitement surrounding the fresh faces and Gambhir’s coaching debut.

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