IND vs NZ: Aakash Chopra reviews Ayush Badoni's selection for the ODI series
Ayush Badoni earned his maiden call-up to the Indian national team on Monday, January 12, after being named as a replacement for the injured Washington Sundar for the final two IND vs NZ ODIs. Sundar sustained an injury while fielding during the first innings of the opening ODI in Vadodara on Sunday. Following medical assessments, the team management confirmed that the all-rounder would be sidelined for the remainder of the series, prompting the selectors to look for a suitable replacement. The opportunity has come at an important moment for Badoni, who has steadily built a reputation as one of the most promising young talents in Indian cricket.
Ayush Badoni's selection is well-deserved for the IND vs NZ ODI Series?
Known for his composure under pressure and ability to adapt to different match situations, Ayush Badoni has impressed consistently in domestic cricket. He has also captained Delhi at various levels, showcasing leadership skills alongside his batting prowess. Badoni’s performances in the Indian Premier League have further elevated his profile. Representing the Lucknow Super Giants, he has played several impactful innings, often rescuing his side from difficult positions with mature and fearless strokeplay. His inclusion in the ODI squad is seen as a reward for sustained performances and a chance for him to transition from domestic and franchise cricket to the international stage.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra has raised concerns over Ayush Badoni’s selection, suggesting that the call-up could be debated based on his limited experience in List A cricket. Chopra pointed out that Badoni is yet to reach the 1,000-run mark in the format, highlighting that the youngster has played only 27 List A matches so far. During this period, Badoni has scored 693 runs at a respectable average of 36.47, numbers that indicate promise but not overwhelming dominance at the domestic level. With the ball, he has taken 18 wickets at an average of 29.72, underlining his value as a part-time all-rounder rather than a proven frontline option.
Chopra further explained that the Indian team management was likely searching for a like-for-like replacement for Washington Sundar, who offers a specific skill set as a spin-bowling all-rounder. However, he acknowledged that such a direct replacement was not readily available, which may have forced the selectors to look beyond conventional choices.
"Washington Sundar is not there. So Ayush Badoni has come in his place. I think the Indian selection committee was looking for a like-for-like replacement, and that's not available. Ayush Badoni bowled a lot and batted for India A. He is also bowling for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and is economical," stated former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra.
"So the selection committee went for Ayush Badoni. It could be a slightly unpopular choice because he hasn't scored even 1,000 runs in List A cricket. He doesn't have those many wickets, seeing which you would say he has broken the door and come in," he added.
Aakash Chopra further elaborated on the possible alternatives India could have explored while searching for a replacement for Washington Sundar, pointing out that there were a few names in contention but each came with its own limitations. According to Chopra, Riyan Parag was one player who might have been considered for the role, given his all-round abilities and experience at the domestic level. However, he explained that Parag is currently on a comeback trail after a prolonged injury layoff, which likely worked against his selection. The team management may have been reluctant to rush him back into international cricket without giving him sufficient time to regain full match fitness and rhythm.
Chopra also mentioned Rinku Singh as another potential option, particularly due to his impressive batting performances in recent times. Rinku has earned praise for his consistency and ability to finish games under pressure, making him an attractive prospect in limited-overs cricket. However, Chopra noted that Rinku’s limited contribution with the ball may have reduced his chances. Since Washington Sundar provides value as a bowling all-rounder, the selectors were keen on someone who could offer similar balance. With Rinku not bowling regularly, the think tank may have felt he did not fully fit the team’s requirements, ultimately leading them to opt for Ayush Badoni instead.
"You might be wondering why Riyan Parag couldn't have come, or why Rinku Singh couldn't have been thought about. Riyan Parag has just started coming back after a very long injury layoff. Another middle-order batter was available in the form of Rinku Singh. Although he has started bowling a lot now, he is not basically a bowler. He is a batter who bowls occasionally," Chopra concluded.
