3 reasons why India overlooking Ravindra Jadeja for 1st BGT 2024-25 Test could be a disaster
Anticipation is soaring as the much-anticipated 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy kicks off in less than 24 hours, with the first Test set to begin on Friday, November 22, in Perth. While India triumphed in their last two Test series in Australia, they were recently whitewashed 3-0 by New Zealand on home soil.
India will be without captain Rohit Sharma, who has taken time off following the birth of his son on November 15. There are also concerns over Shubman Gill, who injured his thumb while fielding in the slips during an intra-squad match simulation.
Reports suggest Ravindra Jadeja might be left out of the first Test, with Ravichandran Ashwin potentially getting the nod due to the presence of several left-handed batters in Australia’s lineup. There is also speculation about handing Nitish Kumar Reddy his debut as the fourth pacer, alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Akash Deep.
Given Jadeja’s critical role in India’s recent success, his absence could be a significant blow. Here are three reasons why overlooking Ravindra Jadeja for the first 2024-25 BGT Test could prove disastrous for India.
#1 Decent record in Australia
The experienced all-rounder has featured in four Tests in Australia, scoring 175 runs, including two fifties, in five innings at an average of 43.75. At 35 years old, he has also demonstrated his skill with the ball, claiming 14 wickets in six innings at a solid average of 21.78.
Considering Jadeja’s impressive record in the opportunities he’s been given, leaving him out would be a mistake. With 89 wickets and 570 runs from 17 matches against Australia, his impact is undeniable.
His proven success in Australian conditions, his role in providing balance to the team, and the mental advantage he brings over the opposition make him an essential player.
#2 Lack of batting depth
Ravindra Jadeja has been one of India's most consistent and versatile players in recent years, excelling in various roles. His absence would leave the batting lineup lacking experience, especially with Rohit Sharma already missing.
Jadeja has played 26 Tests away from home, amassing 1,133 runs at an average of 33.32, including eight fifties and a century. In comparison, Ravichandran Ashwin has scored 384 runs in 19 Test innings in Australia at an average of just 24.
Nitish Kumar Reddy, who could make his debut, has not shown strong form in first-class cricket, having accumulated only 779 runs in 23 games at an average of 21.05, with two fifties and a century. The 21-year-old also struggled in the two unofficial Tests against Australia A, managing only 71 runs across four innings.
India’s batting has often been praised for its strength, but the team can falter when the top order fails. This is where Jadeja’s presence becomes vital. If the top order collapses, as it sometimes does in Australia’s challenging conditions, Jadeja’s absence would leave the lower order exposed, potentially costing India crucial runs.
#3 Jadeja’s control with the ball and key spinning option
Team India is short on experienced seamers, except for stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah. Mohammed Siraj has played three Tests in Australia but has been out of form lately. Akash Deep has just five Test appearances while Harshit Rana is yet to make his debut.
Jadeja offers a crucial fifth bowling option, providing stability with his ability to bowl long, disciplined spells with minimal risk of loose deliveries. If India opt for an additional pacer or another spinner instead of Jadeja, they could lose control in the middle overs, allowing Australia to build partnerships or increase the pace of the game. This would give the hosts an advantage as the match progresses.
Jadeja's left-arm orthodox spin complements the pacers, offering the captain flexibility in managing the bowling attack, especially during long, tiring spells. His presence ensures that India aren't overly reliant on their fast bowlers.