New Delhi, Oct 11 (NationPress) Ravindra Jadeja, serving as India’s vice-captain in the ongoing Test series against West Indies, expressed his thoughts regarding his exclusion from the ODI squad for the upcoming Australian tour. He revealed that discussions were held with him by the captain, selectors, and coach about the decision not to include him in the series.

Despite his absence from the touring squad, Jadeja remains committed to making valuable contributions whenever he is called upon. He showcased his skills by claiming three wickets on the second day of the second Test in New Delhi, significantly aiding in restricting the West Indies to 140/4 at stumps, with the visitors still trailing by 378 runs at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.

As a seasoned left-arm spin all-rounder, Jadeja has participated in 204 ODIs, achieving 231 wickets and scoring 2,806 runs. “I don't control selection. I aspire to play, but ultimately, the team management, selectors, coach, and captain have their own perspectives,” he remarked.

“The question of why I wasn’t selected for this series has a reason behind it, and they communicated that to me. It was not a shock when I learned of my exclusion. I appreciate that the captain, selectors, and coach took the time to explain the rationale,” Jadeja stated during the post-day press briefing.

Having concluded his T20I career as a T20 World Cup champion in 2024, Jadeja emphasized that he aims to represent India in significant tournaments, especially after narrowly missing out in the last ODI World Cup held in India in 2023, where they finished as runners-up to Australia.

“I feel content whenever I am given an opportunity, striving to maintain my performance over the years. A chance to compete in a major event like the World Cup would be fantastic for Indian cricket. Everyone dreams of winning the World Cup, and last time we came so close. Achieving victory this time would fulfill all our aspirations,” he mentioned.

Jadeja also addressed whether he ponders personal achievements, asserting that team success is his top priority. “I won't deny it – at times I reflect on it, and it brings me joy momentarily. However, when it happens, I feel no different,” he added.

“I focus more on the team's success – is the team winning? Is my performance impactful? My mindset revolves around that. Whether I run or take wickets, I assess if it contributes to the team’s victory, which holds greater significance,” he stated.

“Scoring runs or taking wickets is futile if the team loses. It’s only meaningful when my impactful performance leads to a team win, particularly in ICC tournaments and WTC finals. If my performance is commendable and the team succeeds, that’s what brings me satisfaction.”

As one of the senior members of the Test squad, Jadeja, appointed vice-captain for the series against the West Indies due to Rishabh Pant's recovery from a fractured right foot, expressed his willingness to mentor younger players and adjust to the team’s requirements based on the situation.

“If the wicket favors batting, I adapt to become a batsman. If it benefits bowling, then I focus on bowling – it’s straightforward. I no longer ponder captaincy; that phase is long behind me.”

“Currently, I do my utmost to align with the team’s needs. Whether it’s batting advice from Jaiswal or bowling tips for Kuldeep, I share my insights whenever they seek my counsel. I am very content with my current role,” he concluded.