Aakash Chopra analyzes major changes in spin department in India’s ODI squad for Australia

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra reckons selectors have made changes to India’s spin bowling department keeping the 2027 ODI World Cup in mind. Ravindra Jadeja and Varun Chakravarthy, who were both part of the Champions Trophy squad in the UAE, were not included for the upcoming Australia tour. While Jadeja had returned with figures of 1-30 in the CT final against New Zealand, Varun bagged 2-45.

Chief selector Ajit Agarkar said on Jadeja’s exclusion that they could not have afforded to fit in another spinner. Chopra reckons the selectors have hinted that all-rounders like Axar Patel and Washington Sundar will be preferred ahead of Varun Chakravarthy and Ravindra Jadeja.

The 2027 ODI World Cup will be played in South Africa and Namibia and the conditions are not going to be too conducive for the spinners.

Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube Channel, “Jadeja’s performance was good in the Champions Trophy final. Rohit has only lost his captaincy, but he has lost his place in the team. The reason given is that there was no place for too many spinners. But Varun Chakaravarthy is also not there. He played the Champions Trophy final.

“Washington Sundar was not even in the team [playing XI]. He has been picked, so Washington Sundar has become your three-format player. Shubman Gill, Axar Patel and Harshit Rana are the other all-format players. I think this is preparation for the World Cup. Washi and Axar could be there. Both are better batters in the format. Jadeja may come back, but don’t be surprised if he doesn’t,” the 48-year-old added.

Kuldeep Yadav is also included in India’s ODI squad for the series against Australia. India will take on Australia in the upcoming three-match ODI series, starting October 19.