Even though the T20 World Cup 2024 may not have reached the performance level anticipated from Ravindra Jadeja, every true cricket fan would acknowledge his substantial contributions to Indian cricket across all formats, particularly in the shortest format of the game. Mere hours after veterans, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, announced their retirements from T20Is, Jadeja followed suit, declaring his T20I retirement through a heartfelt Instagram post.
As we bid adieu to this cricketing icon, the responsibility now rests on the emerging and promising talents to uphold the legacy and ensure the Indian flag continues to soar proudly.
Let us delve deep into the top three potential options who can fill Ravindra Jadeja’s void in T20 team:
3. Washington Sundar
The towering figure, standing at 6’1” possesses substantial T20 experience, having played 43 T20Is for India since his debut in 2017. He has often been a formidable second fiddle, particularly during bilateral series, consistently delivering impressive performances with both bat and ball when called upon. His proficiency with the new ball is widely known, demonstrated through his consistent line & length regularly in 20-over cricket. Additionally, he is more than a handy batsman, adept at rotating the strike and delivering some meaty blows in the death overs, while also having a dynamism to bat at different positions.
2. Krunal Pandya
The lefty all-rounder is akin to Jadeja, having an ability to bowl fast and economical spells. Additionally, the Gujarat-born also possesses valuable experience bowling at different situations of the game.
One of Hardik Pandya’s elder brother’s unique selling points is his proficiency as a left-arm spinner who, akin to Jadeja, prefers to dart the ball in rather than giving it too much air. Additionally, he possesses valuable experience bowling both with the new ball and during the middle overs. His batting prowess is further evidenced by a strike-rate exceeding 130 in both T20Is and T20s up until now, underscoring his versatility and effectiveness as a middle-order batter.
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1. Rahul Tewatia
Don’t be deceived by the lack of T20I experience for Rahul Tewatia; his potential is undeniable. Similar to Shivam Dube, he has earned a reputation as a formidable spin basher, though he is equally capable of taking on pace bowlers.
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His preferred on-side is where he unleashes the most destruction, delivering massive hits which more often than not culminate in huge maximums. Additionally, his useful leg-spin makes him a viable bowling option, elevating him beyond the role of a mere part-timer.