We can't play Ashwin and Jadeja all the time: Ravi Shastri

Before the limited overs series against Sri Lanka, spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja were rest, considering their heavy workload over the past one year, as India played out a massive home season. Ashwin went on to play in the English county circuit while Jadeja has been spending some time off the field.

Eyebrows were raised after the duo were once again dropped from the squad for the limited overs series against Australia at home. Steve Smith’s men lost the Test series to India earlier, and they are back with a full strength side to compete in the shorter format of the game. Considering the competitiveness of the series, it was surprising to see both the names missing.

Prasad talks about the rotation policy

“The team for the three ODIs against Australia has been selected in line with the rotation policy of the Board and accordingly R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja have been rested,” Chairman of selector MSK Prasad said in a release.

Meanwhile, former Indian captain Mohammad Azharuddin told TOI, “I can understand if both Ashwin and Jadeja are rested for the Sri Lankan series. But when India are playing against a team like Australia, your best spinners should be used. After all, you are playing at home and on wickets that suit them. They should have been given a chance to play the Australian series.”

Shastri clears the air

Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has put all these rumors aside, and said that the spin duo can’t be played in every single game. And with the world cup taking place two years from now, there is ample time for everyone to cement their place. “We can’t play Ashwin and Jadeja all the time. There is enough time for Ashwin to get back into the team because the World Cup is still two years away. Emphasis has to be on Test cricket.” Shastri said.