IND vs NZ: 3 Strong Reasons India Should Consider Dropping Ravindra Jadeja For 2nd ODI

Ravindra Jadeja’s overall record in ODIs is impressive, but his recent performances and specific struggles against Black Caps suggest that he may not be the right fit for this crucial game. Here are 3 reasons why dropping him could be the right move.

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Ordinary Strike Rate In Lower Order Batting

Jadeja’s batting has also failed to provide the impact expected from a lower‑order player. Usually batting at No. 7 or 8, he often comes in during the death overs but has struggled to accelerate. Since 2023, he has scored 419 runs in 25 innings at a strike rate of 82.48, hitting only five sixes in that period. His inability to consistently clear boundaries reduces his value as a finisher.

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Diminishing Threat As A Wicket‑Taker

Although Jadeja remains economical, his ability to take wickets has declined. In the first ODI, New Zealand’s batters handled him comfortably, rotating the strike with ease. Since the start of 2025, he has played 11 ODIs, picking up just 12 wickets at an average of 38.08 and a strike rate of 47.50. More concerning, he has completed his full 10‑over quota only twice in those matches, with just one wicket in his last four outings.

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Modest Bowling Record Against New Zealand

Jadeja has played 208 ODIs, taking 232 wickets, but his numbers against New Zealand are underwhelming. In 17 innings against them, he has managed only 10 wickets at an average of 77.60, a strike rate of 91.2, and an economy rate of 5.10. While his batting returns against the Black Caps have been decent, India’s batting lineup is already settled, making his bowling the key factor.