‘This is the reality right now’ - Aakash Chopra gives verdict on Ravindra Jadeja’s future

Ace commentator Aakash Chopra has given a harsh reality check on Ravindra Jadeja’s ODI career after a string of dismal performances from India’s premier all-rounder. The left-arm spinner failed to pick a single wicket against New Zealand, while being ineffective with the bat as well. 

India suffered a shock series defeat against New Zealand despite winning the opening encounter. The visitors clinched the series 2-1, even though many of their regulars were not in the squad. India's spinners, especially Jadeja, struggled to perform, and questions are now being raised about his future in the format. 

"It's a big statement to make. It's true that his name was not there when the selection happened for the Australia tour. There was no workload management because he wasn't playing T20Is in any case. So, he didn't play the Asia Cup. Axar Patel was there and he also did well, even though India lost that series," said Chopra on his YouTube channel.

"After that, Jaddu has been given chances. Jaddu played against South Africa and New Zealand. So, he has played quite a few ODIs and he has rarely completed his quota of overs. He has taken one wicket in total in the last five or six games. He hasn't scored runs and has conceded a lot of runs. This is the reality right now," he added.

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Before New Zealand, Jadeja had a forgettable series against South Africa, as he picked up just one wicket in three matches, while failing to make any significant impact with the bat either.

Chopra believes a good IPL campaign may help Jadeja

Chopra further talked about the chances of a senior pro getting picked again in the squad despite recent failures. He opined that even though Jadeja is falling behind in the race, he can still make it up with a strong performance in the upcoming IPL 2026.

"We don't know what the circumstances would be after six months. However, Ravindra Jadeja is falling behind, there is no doubt about that. He has already left T20Is and there is no Test cricket for the next eight months. He will once again become a part of the conversation if he does well in the IPL," he said.

The Saurashtra all-rounder remains one of India’s greatest performers in ODIs and has been an integral part of Team India for more than a decade. In 210 ODIs, he has scored 2905 runs with the bat while picking up 232 wickets, underlining his stellar career.