Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja Out Of ODIs: The ‘Gautam Gambhir Factor’ Behind Team Selection

The recent announcement of Team India’s squad for the white-ball tour of Sri Lanka presented a mixed bag for Suryakumar Yadav. While he was appointed as the captain for the T20Is, his exclusion from the ODI squad was a notable decision by selectors and new head coach Gautam Gambhir. Despite being a part of the 2023 ODI World Cup squad, Suryakumar’s performance did not meet expectations, leading to his omission for the ODIs.

Suryakumar, widely regarded as one of the top T20 batters globally, has struggled in the 50-over format. In his 37 ODI appearances, he averages just 25.76, raising concerns about his ability to build innings and adapt his game over the longer format.

With only six ODIs remaining before the ICC Champions Trophy next year, selectors are opting to explore other options. Reports suggest that Sunrisers Hyderabad all-rounder Nitish Reddy is being considered for his versatile skill set. While Hardik Pandya, India’s leading seam-bowling all-rounder, is not part of the ODI series, he may return for future assignments.

Gautam Gambhir, known for his process-driven approach to selection, is focusing on players like Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, which influenced the decision to leave out Ravindra Jadeja. Riyan Parag, a promising all-rounder from Assam, is also in the mix. His recent performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy have showcased his potential as a reliable lower-order batter and useful bowler.

India’s ODI squad for the series against Sri Lanka includes: