Lalit Yadav eyes Ravindra Jadeja's vacant Team India T20I spot
Delhi Capitals cricketer, Lalit Yadav, has expressed his ambition to fill the all-rounder position in Team India, following Ravindra Jadeja's retirement from T20I cricket. This aspiration comes after Jadeja retired from the shortest format, after winning the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup with India. Yadav, currently part of the ongoing Delhi Premier League (DPL), remains undeterred and is focused on enhancing his skills.
Yadav acknowledges competition for all-rounder position
Yadav is aware of the responsibilities and competition associated with the all-rounder role, a position also sought after by Washington Sundar. In an interview with PTI Videos, he stated, "Yes, of course, I do see myself in the race for the slot of an all-rounder." He further added that representing India is his biggest motivation.
Yadav's performance in DPL leaves room for improvement
Currently representing Purani Dilli 6 in the Delhi Premier League, Yadav's performance has been lackluster. He has compiled only 94 runs across seven innings at an average of under 20. His bowling record also remains modest, with four scalps at an economy rate of over 6. Despite this, he remains optimistic about his future games and considers his current performance as average.
Jadeja's contribution to Team India
Hours after winning the 2024 T20 World Cup, all-rounder Jadeja announced his retirement from the shortest format. Jadeja was part of India's side that beat South Africa in a thrilling final in Barbados. The 35-year-old represented India in 74 T20Is, taking 54 wickets at 29.85. He also scored 515 runs at 21.45. Jadeja, known for his acrobatic fielding, also took 28 catches in the format. It remains to be seen if Yadav will rise from the ranks.