Gill and Jadeja Set for Ranji Trophy Appearance in Rajkot
India's Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill will join veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja for the Punjab versus Saurashtra Ranji Trophy match in Rajkot. The game starts on January 22. This domestic fixture follows their recent participation in the three-match ODI series against New Zealand.
Recent ODI Performances Under Scrutiny
Shubman Gill showed consistent batting in the ODI series. He scored 56, 56, and 23 runs across the three matches. However, Ravindra Jadeja's form has sparked discussions among cricket fans and experts.
The 37-year-old Jadeja struggled with both ball and bat. He went wicketless in the series, conceding 141 runs in 23 overs. His bowling figures included 41 runs in six overs during the final match. In the earlier games, he bowled nine and eight overs respectively without taking a wicket.
With the bat, Jadeja managed scores of 4, 27, and 12 in the series. This lack of significant contribution comes despite his reputation as one of cricket's greatest all-rounders.
Speculation About Jadeja's ODI Future
Former cricketer Sreevats Goswami, who played with Jadeja in the 2008 U19 World Cup, expressed concerns on social media. Goswami suggested the third ODI against New Zealand might be Jadeja's last 50-over match for India.
"Ravindra Jadeja has been a stalwart for India over the years and a match-winner," Goswami tweeted. "But I just get a feeling this could well be his last ODI in India. We should celebrate him before he silently exits."
Goswami noted that India's next ODI is only in June against England in England, adding to the speculation.
Broader Context of Recent Form
Jadeja's recent struggles extend beyond the New Zealand series. In his last six ODIs for India, he has taken only one wicket. This performance comes despite India preferring him over Axar Patel for recent home series against New Zealand and South Africa.
In domestic cricket this season, Jadeja played two Vijay Hazare Trophy matches for Saurashtra. He featured in just one Ranji Trophy match, where he went wicketless while conceding 78 runs in 28 overs and scored 36 runs. Saurashtra recently lost the Vijay Hazare Trophy final to Vidarbha by 38 runs in Bengaluru.
The upcoming Ranji Trophy match provides both players an opportunity to regain form ahead of future international commitments. Cricket enthusiasts will watch closely as these established stars return to domestic competition.
