Ravi Shastri explains why Ravindra Jadeja should be part of India’s 2027 ODI World Cup squad

The ICC ODI World Cup 2027 promises to bring new challenges for teams as they adapt to diverse conditions on the African continent. With the tournament expected to feature a mix of pace-friendly pitches, turning courts and high-altitude venues, the selectors are already looking ahead to putting together well-balanced squads capable of flourishing in all conditions. In this context, discussions about India’s possible line-up have intensified, and one name that continues to spark debate is that of veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.

Ravi Shastri on why Ravindra Jadeja should play the 2027 ODI World Cup

Former India head 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 ability as reasons why the veteran cricketer should not be written off.

In a recent episode of the ICC Review, Shastri praised the experienced all-rounder, describing him as a once-in-a-generation player whose impact goes far beyond the scorecard. Despite the emergence of younger spin bowling all-rounders Axar PatelShastri believes Jadeja’s experience and versatility make him indispensable for a global tournament like the 2027 World Cup, to be held in South Africa, Namibia and Zimbabwe.

Shastri, who coached India during some of Jadeja’s best years across formats, made his point clear: the Saurashtra all-rounder still has a lot to offer.

“In 2027, everyone is talking. Don’t discount Ravindra Jadeja or write him off. He will be in the mix, there’s no doubt about that. He’s still playing like he’s 7-8 years younger than him. It’s just a privilege to see him on the field chasing a ball,” Shastri said.

The former coach also acknowledged the selection dynamics that saw Jadeja miss out on recent limited-overs tours, particularly the short ODI series in Australia, where India opted for Axar Patel due to the team’s balance and conditions. However, Shastri emphasized 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 three matches, but when you come to South Africa where you have to play different teams in different locations, they can both play.” he added.

A modern Benjamin Button

Echoing Shastri’s admiration, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting also heaped high praise on Jadeja, comparing his seemingly ageless energy and athleticism to the fictional character Benjamin Knoop. Ponting further highlighted Jadeja’s unparalleled ability on the field, noting that his reflexes and anticipation set him apart from most modern cricketers.

“I think I have to get some of what he takes 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 fielder of all time, but you put him right at the very top,” Ponting noted.

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