'I do see myself in the race': Delhi Capitals player stakes claim for Ravindra Jadeja's spot

Delhi Capitals' versatile all-rounder Lalit Yadav has thrown his hat into the ring to replace the legendary Ravindra Jadeja in India's T20I squad. Following Jadeja's retirement from T20I cricket after India's triumphant World Cup campaign in the West Indies, the race to fill his enormous shoes has heated up, with Lalit confidently staking his claim.

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Lalit Yadav stakes claim for all-rounder's role in Indian team

In an exclusive interview with PTI on Thursday, Lalit expressed his eagerness and readiness to step into the role that Jadeja made his own over the years. 

Lalit Yadav, who has been a key player for Delhi Capitals in the IPL, believes he has the necessary skills and mindset to take on the responsibilities that come with being an all-rounder for Team India. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball has not gone unnoticed, and with the competition for the spot intensifying, Lalit is determined to make his case stronger.

"Yes, of course, I do see myself in the race for the slot of an all-rounder. To play for India and don its jersey is something that plays on my mind every day, it's the biggest motivation for me," Lalit Yadav told PTI in an interview on Thursday.

Lalit's confidence stems from his consistent performances in the domestic circuit and the IPL, where he has shown his ability to perform under pressure. His off-spin bowling, coupled with his hard-hitting capabilities in the lower-middle order, makes him a valuable asset, especially in the shortest format of the game.

With India's T20I squad set to undergo a transition phase following the retirement of stalwarts like Jadeja, Lalit Yadav's name is one to watch out for as the selectors look to rebuild the team with an eye on the future. As the cricketing world awaits India's next T20I series, all eyes will be on Lalit and whether he can turn his aspirations into reality.

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Despite a lackluster performance in the ongoing Delhi Premier League, where he scored 94 runs in seven innings and took four wickets in 23 overs, Lalit remains determined. He sees the IPL as crammed with potential talents and aims for a better performance to earn a spot in India's squad.

Lalit Yadav acknowledged learning valuable lessons from the tournament and maintaining a positive mindset. As a captain, he feels responsible but not pressured, and aims to lead his team to more victories.

(With PTI inputs)