IND vs NZ: 3 big reasons why Ravindra Jadeja should be dropped from 2nd ODI

Ravindra Jadeja failed to make any significant impact in the IND vs NZ series opener.

India got a winning start against New Zealand (IND vs NZ) in the three-match ODI series on Sunday, January 11, at Vadodara. While Virat Kohli shone against the Black Caps with a 93-run knock, another veteran, Ravindra Jadeja, failed to show his flair.

Coming to bat at number 5, Jadeja only scored four runs and was dismissed by Kyle Jamieson after facing only five deliveries. Meanwhile, he was also wicketless with the ball. Over the last couple of years, the Saurashtra all-rounder’s effect as a game-changer has diminished significantly in ODIs.

Thus, without any further ado, here are the three reasons why Ravindra Jadeja should be dropped from India’s playing 11 against New Zealand.

3. Failing to pick up regular wickets

Ravindra Jadeja has been an economical bowling option for Team India. However, he has not been in his best form when it comes to picking up wickets in the ODIs.

He is losing his effectiveness as a wicket taker in the middle overs in the 50-over matches, while batters have seemingly become comfortable against the 37-year-old.

His experience has always been a key factor for the Indian line-up, but his recent performances have not been as effective. Jadeja has played 11 ODIs since the start of 2025, where he has taken 12 wickets at an average of 38.

Moreover, he has managed to bowl his complete spell only twice in the 11 games. Thus, the 37-year-old’s impact in limited-overs cricket has been fading in the meantime.

2. Underwhelming bowling record against New Zealand in ODIs

Jadeja’s numbers and success in the Indian colours will always be commendable. The Saurashtra all-rounder has taken 232 wickets in 208 ODIs for India. However, his record against the Black Caps has been below average.

In a total of 17 innings against New Zealand, he has only picked up ten wickets at a high average of 77.60, a strike rate of 91.2, and an economy rate of 5.10.

During the series opener, he conceded 56 runs in his nine overs without taking a wicket. Thus, the left-arm spinner can potentially be dropped for the upcoming game.

1. Failing to fulfil the finisher role

While Ravindra Jadeja’s numbers as a bowler have significantly declined, his impact as a batter has also started diminishing.

Courtesy of a strong batting top and middle order combination, the 37-year-old primarily comes to bat at either No. 7 or 8, the time when it’s required to score big hits to push the scoreline further.

Jadeja has failed to provide the services. Since 2023, he has scored 419 runs for India in 25 innings at an average of 32.23 and a strike rate of 82.48. The 37-year-old has only smashed five maximums in the time period while facing significant difficulties in making big hits.

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