India very lucky to have like-for-like replacement for Ravindra Jadeja in Axar Patel: Wasim Jaffer

Former cricketer Wasim Jaffer said that India is lucky to have a like-for-like replacement for Ravindra Jadeja in Axar Patel. Jadeja was ruled out of the ongoing Asia Cup after getting injured and Patel was named as his replacement.

Wasim Jaffer has said that India is very lucky to have a like-for-like replacement for Ravindra Jadeja in Axar Patel after the 33-year-old was ruled out of the Asia Cup with an injury.

News emerged on Friday that Jadeja would be returning home after an injury and Patel was named as his replacement.

Speaking to ESPNCricinfo, Jaffer said that the 33-year-old's recent injury history is a cause for concern for the Indian team management.

"I think it will be a cause of concern, there is no doubt. He played his part in these couple of games, especially against Pakistan. The way he has come in at No.4 and the way he batted till the end. He played a crucial part in India winning that game. And obviously, he bowled well against Hong Kong."

"He is one of those guys who play all three formats. He is somebody who plays Tests, One-day and T20s so that (injury) is bound to happen. He is not getting any younger. But yeah, the frequency with which he has got injured last few times. That is cause for concern," said Jaffer.

However, the former cricketer said that India is lucky to have a good replacement in Patel for Jadeja. Jaffer also praised the 28-year-old's efforts in West Indies and said that India will not miss the batting of Jadeja.