Photo via Hindustan Times

Big spin all-rounder trial before World Cup begins as Ravindra Jadeja makes a crucial ODI comeback against West Indies

Veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has rejoined India's 50-over lineup for the upcoming three-game series against the West Indies beginning September 27, having sat out the prior two tours while selectors evaluated Axar Patel and Harsh Dubey. The 37-year-old, who holds the distinction of having taken more ODI wickets than any other active national team cricketer, had gone without a wicket during his previous appearance against New Zealand in January.

With India expected to allocate only a single roster spot to a left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder for next year's World Cup in South Africa, this series will act as an audition. Rohit Sharma retains his top-order position following a resolute century at Lord's against England, while Ruturaj Gaikwad steps in for vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, who has been reassigned to the concurrent Asian Games in Japan alongside several other first-choice players.