Ravindra Jadeja makes himself available for two games for Saurashtra in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Veteran India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has made himself available for two matches for Saurashtra in the 2025-26 Vijay Hazare Trophy. The decision, confirmed by officials of the Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA), shows Jadeja’s intent to remain active at the highest level while keeping himself in the setup for future ICC events, including the 2027 ODI World Cup.

The Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier domestic 50-over tournament, begins on December 24 and is set to feature several Indian stars this season. Jadeja’s availability comes after the BCCI’s directive encouraging centrally contracted players to gain match practice through domestic tournaments. With India’s ODI assignments resuming in January against New Zealand, the tournament is a good opportunity for senior players to stay match-ready.

According to reports, Jadeja will represent Saurashtra in two group-stage matches scheduled for January 6 and January 8 in Alur, Karnataka. Saurashtra are set to face Services and Gujarat in these fixtures. An SCA official confirmed that Jadeja has communicated his availability clearly, although the plan may be revisited should he be selected for India’s upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, which begins on January 11.

“I want to play [ODIs], but it’s not in my hands. At the end of the day, the team management, captain, and the coach think a certain way. They must have a reason for not selecting me for this series… The next time I get the chance, I will do what I have been doing for so long. And the major tournaments, like the World Cup, if I can do well in the ODIs before that and get the chance for it, then I will do my best for Indian cricket. Winning the 50-over World Cup is everyone’s dream. We missed it marginally the last time, so if possible, we will try to go all the way this time," Jadeja said during the Test series against the West Indies.

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Jadeja last played in India's home series against South Africa

The 37-year-old was part of India’s squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy but missed the tour of Australia, where team management opted for a different team balance. He returned for the home ODI series against South Africa, contributing 56 runs across two innings and picking up one wicket. 

Competition for places in India’s ODI setup has increased, particularly among spin-bowling all-rounders. Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav have come out to be strong contenders, especially in pace-friendly conditions. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar has previously stated that Jadeja remains in the selectors’ plans. Meanwhile, Jadeja has featured in 260 List A matches, scoring 3,911 runs and bagging 293 wickets.