Saba Karim reveals why selectors have backed Ravindra Jadeja ahead of Axar Patel for South Africa ODIs

Former Indian wicket-keeper bat Saba Karim has backed the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel decision to pick Ravindra Jadeja ahead of Axar Patel for the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa. Karim highlighted that Jadeja is more effective in the Indian conditions and he should be part of India’s playing XI.

Jadeja was not picked for the Australia ODIs whereas Axar Patel was part of the team. The former Indian selector said India could not have picked more spinners in the squad and thus Patel had to miss out. Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav are the other two spinners in the squad.

Saba Karim said on ESPN Cricinfo, “Jadeja had to come back into the XI because he remains such an instrumental player for India. The selectors had given him a rest for the Australian ODI series. Especially in Indian conditions, Jadeja becomes extremely effective. His game awareness has improved so much. Even in white-ball cricket, you expect someone with Jadeja’s experience to come in handy for India.

“Axar Patel, although he has done quite well, you possibly can’t have so many spinners in the squad. That is the reason why Axar Patel has not been included,” the 58-year-old went on to explain.

Jadeja has scalped 231 wickets in 204 ODIs and he has also scored 2806 runs while batting down the order. Thus, the all-rounder has all the experience under his belt.

The former Indian stumper said Ravindra Jadeja might take Axar Patel’s role in the team for the ODI series.

“You may see Ravindra Jadeja doing that role. That depends on the team management. The XI is chosen by the captain and the team management. It’s up to KL Rahul and Gautam Gambhir how they want to utilize Ravindra Jadeja. He remains a very important force for India heading into the 2027 World Cup,” the former India stumper explained.

The first ODI between India and South Africa will be played at JSCA International Stadium Complex, Ranchi, on Sunday.