As per reports, Ravindra Jadeja’s relationship with Chennai Super Kings has deteriorated after IPL 2022. These reports also claim that Jaddu might be released to the auctions before IPL 2023. It needs to be noted that before IPL 2022 Auctions, Jadeja was CSK’s first retention at INR 16 crores. However, after failing to do well as the skipper, the task had to be given back to MS Dhoni. This coupled with a few other factors is said to be the reason behind Jadeja and CSK’s conflict. If the all-rounder features in the auction, a number of teams will be interested in his services. On that note, here, we take a look at four teams that can target Ravindra Jadeja for IPL 2023 if CSK does not retain him.
1) Gujarat Titans
Gujarat Titans surprised all with their title-winning show in IPL 2022. That said, teams would be better prepared to tackle them next season. Hence, GT will have to cover up the holes in the squad.
One of the issues is the lack of spin support for Rashid Khan. Although they did find a superb option in R Sai Kishore in the latter half of IPL 2022, if Jadeja is available, GT could think of replacing Sai with the cricketer. Since Jadeja hails from Gujarat, the fanbase would be pleased with the signing. The cricketer will add better stability to the batting department, and on his day, he can support Rashid with a few overs of spin.
2) Sunrisers Hyderabad
SRH is one of the teams that can target Ravindra Jadeja for IPL 2023 if CSK does not retain him. The franchise went in with Washington Sundar as the sole established specialist spinner for IPL 2022. When he was injured, the likes of J Suchith had to play. The team also lacks a good option at No.6.
Ravindra Jadeja would be a perfect fit for this squad. In fact, the management can also consider him for captaincy if Kane Williamson continues to underperform. SRH can also manage the funds by releasing players such as Romario Shepherd.
3) Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians are one of the franchises that hardly invested in the spin department. They played with the likes of Murugan Ashwin and Kumar Kartikeya, and that did not help the franchise a lot.
MI is known for big-name signings and if Jadeja is on the auction table, the franchise is likely to take a plunge. With the likes of Kieron Pollard not doing well, MI can use Jadeja as the finisher alongside Tim David. The team can then use Suryakumar Yadav at his comfortable position of No.3. Of course, Jadeja anyways comes in handy with his off-spin. Therefore, the five-time champions might be interested in the Saurashtra cricketer.
4) Punjab Kings
Punjab Kings is also one of the teams that can target Ravindra Jadeja for IPL 2023 if CSK does not retain him. PBKS has a few loopholes in squad construction. The team lacks a reliable left-hander in the middle order. Also, they do not have a player who can offer bowling services in the cream of the batting line-up. This made them compromise on the batting depth to add five bowling options at times.
Ravindra Jadeja is one player who can solve all these issues. Harpreet Brar did not do well in IPL 2022. The franchise might look to replace and although Jaddu as a bowler might not justify the call, as a batter, he more than makes up for it. Hence, PBKS is also on this list.
