We did not lose because we tried different combinations – Ravindra Jadeja hits back at critics after India’s defeat against West Indies

India had a challenging outing against West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series as Shai Hope led the hosts to a memorable victory. Two of India’s batting mainstays, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, were both not in the playing XI, a decision that sparked a few speculations.

Experts pointed out that one of the probable reasons for India to take the call may have been overt experimenting, particularly in the wake of Rahul Dravid’s statement of looking at the bigger picture instead of focusing on the current results. Indian all-rounder, Ravindra Jadeja, though, had an intriguing perspective for the critics, pointing out that blaming the experimentations for India’s defeat makes no sense.

In a pre-match interaction ahead of the third ODI, Jadeja said, “This is the only series before the Asia Cup and World Cup where we can do experiments and change the combination. We cannot do many experiments in the World Cup and Asia Cup.”

Talking about the exclusion of Kohli and Rohit, Jadeja said, “We are trying different things and combinations as this is the time that we can try different batting orders. It is on management and the captain knows what combination they want to go with, so there is no confusion on this.”

Jadeja finally shifted his focus back to India’s defeat, stating, “We did not lose because we tried different combinations, sometimes we tried something and the wicket conditions changed from the first half to the second half. One loss will not create confusion or doubt.”

He further added, “I personally want to play as many games and every match teaches you something. But if the team requests to see a new player then obviously I will do that. It is a team game.”

Jadeja eventually concluded by heaping praises on the Caribbean side, stating, “West Indies are a young team, they are learning, and they are getting better. The more they play, they will get better. They have good talent. I am sure they will learn from the Indian team. They have a good future.”

He finally said, “Every player is working hard, no one is taking things for granted. Whenever they are given an opportunity, they are giving their 100%. These questions raise only when India loses. No one is arrogant.”