‘Experience is something you cannot beat’ - Sitanshu Kotak backs Ravindra Jadeja ahead of West Indies ODIs
India's batting coach Sitanshu Kotak backed Ravindra Jadeja's experience and fielding prowess as the all-rounder returns to the ODI squad.
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One of India's modern greats, Ravindra Jadeja remains firmly in India's plans for the 2027 ODI World Cup, according to batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. The veteran all-rounder has returned to the white-ball setup after an eight-month gap and is expected to play an important role as India begin their preparations for the showpiece event in South Africa.
Jadeja's experience adds significant depth to India's squad, particularly with the team looking to strike the right balance between youth and experience. With the likes of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also back in the ODI setup, Jadeja's return gives India another experienced campaigner who has played a key role in major tournaments over the years.
Speaking ahead of India's opening ODI against West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram, Kotak highlighted Jadeja's all-round value and stressed that his experience remains an important asset for the team.
“Jadeja is an outstanding bowler. We all know his records... Jadeja is one of the best fielders on a world level. The experience he has…I actually firmly believe that experience is something you cannot beat,” Kotak was quoted as saying by The Times of India.
The India batting coach also compared Jadeja's contribution to that of Rohit and Kohli, pointing out that the trio bring considerable experience and knowledge to the dressing room.
“Like we see Rohit and Virat, we see Jadeja, they bring a lot to the team,” he added.
Jadeja's experience crucial for India's World Cup plans
Jadeja has been one of India's most dependable all-rounders across formats, and his ability to contribute in multiple departments gives the team flexibility. His left-arm spin can be particularly valuable in the middle overs, while his fielding remains another major strength.
With the 2027 ODI World Cup scheduled to be played in South Africa, India will have a number of bilateral series to assess their combinations and identify the players who fit their plans. Kotak's comments indicate that Jadeja remains an important part of those plans as the team looks to build towards the tournament.
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Meanwhile, Kotak also provided an update on Shubman Gill ahead of Sunday's series opener. Gill was struck on his right elbow by Mohammed Siraj during a training session, raising concerns over his availability for the first ODI.
However, the India batting coach confirmed that the captain has recovered sufficiently and is expected to be available for the game.
“Gill is looking good, I think he is good to go tomorrow,” Kotak said.
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