Ravindra Jadeja is not a front-line spinner in English conditions: Greg Chappell

Former India coach Greg Chappell questioned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja’s selection as a frontline spinner in the upcoming Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Jadeja played the first Test in Headingley, Leeds, but failed to make an impression with the ball.

Some commentators condemned the Saurashtra all-rounder’s performance as he failed to utilise the rough outside Ben Duckett’s off-stump in the fourth innings of the Test match, as England chased down a 371-run mark to secure a famous win.

Chappell believes Jadeja lacks the skill set necessary to perform as a frontline spinner in English conditions. The former Australian cricketer believes the Asian heavyweights will need to field a better balanced team to make a comeback in the five-match series.

“Ravindra Jadeja is not a front-line spinner under English circumstances.

If his hitting is deemed adequate, he can be a support spinner; otherwise, a rethink is required. If India is to turn their fortunes around in this series, they will need a more balanced team,” Chappell wrote in his essay.

The cricketer-turned-expert also stated that selecting batting all-rounders or part-time bowlers to cover for top-order failures is not a good plan to employ.

“I don’t believe that an extra batter who bowls should be chosen as insurance against top-order collapse. “The top six must be trusted to deliver the runs, and the captain has the best combination to secure the required 20 wickets,” Chappell wrote.

Selectors are the ones under pressure now: Greg Chappell

Chappell suggested that the Indian selectors make brave calls and trust specialists to deliver, instead of relying heavily on all-rounders.

“The selectors are the ones under pressure now. If batters and bowlers have to be prepared to take risks to score runs and take wickets, they too have to have the courage to take bold decisions,” he added.

The second Test between India and England commences on Wednesday, July 2. The high-voltage encounter will be played at the picturesque Edgbaston in Birmingham.