Kohli and Rohit Under Scrutiny: Gambhir's Approach Leaves Their International Careers in Question

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The ongoing discussion regarding the future of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in various formats following their disappointing performance in the recently concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy series has brought another senior Indian player's prospects into question. This player, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, appears to be excluded from head coach Gautam Gambhir's plans.

As reported by the Times of India, Jadeja's future across all formats is currently in doubt due to his underwhelming performances in both red-ball and white-ball cricket over recent months. Sources within the BCCI have indicated that Gambhir, along with the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar, is focused on establishing a core group with an eye toward the 2027 ODI World Cup. However, it remains uncertain whether this planning will commence with the upcoming Champions Trophy.

A BCCI source informed the Times of India, "Gambhir has been quite decisive in forming core teams tailored to specific formats. While he has not made significant changes to the longer formats yet, he possesses a clear strategy for building a robust foundation for the ODI World Cup. He is eager to provide opportunities to several identified players." The source further noted, "The selectors will deliberate on whether to continue with Jadeja as a safe option or to make a transition at this juncture."

Additionally, the report indicated that selectors are contemplating the possibility of excluding Jadeja from their ODI plans, given his lackluster batting performance at the No. 7 position over the past two years, where he has maintained a strike rate of only 75. Notably, he was not selected for the ODI tour of Sri Lanka last year, shortly after announcing his retirement from T20I cricket.

Will Jadeja make the Champions Trophy cut?

Currently, Axar Patel has surpassed Jadeja in the selection hierarchy, with Washington Sundar also being considered for the role of spin all-rounder. Kuldeep Yadav is regarded as the leading candidate to be included in the Champions Trophy squad as the primary specialist spinner.

According to a source who spoke to TOI, while Jadeja remains a viable option for both the England Test series and the Champions Trophy, the selectors are expected to make a final decision by the end of this weekend.

"In Test cricket, he has faced challenges in finding his rhythm, although his bowling has been consistent. There is a growing inclination to move past him, particularly in the ODI format. The decision ahead will be a difficult one," the source remarked.

"In terms of Test cricket, Jadeja still has a chance for the England tour, given the inexperience in the middle order. However, the selectors will need to make a determination during the home season. For the Champions Trophy, they will recognize that pitches in Dubai have traditionally favored slower bowlers," the source added.

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