Cricket fans were in for a surprise as BCCI announced Ayush Badoni’s inclusion in the Indian ODI team for the New Zealand series, replacing the sidelined Washington Sundar. The change, necessitated by injury, injects youthful vigor into a squad aiming to bounce back strongly.
Details emerged that Sundar’s finger injury, first noticed during a practice match, worsened despite precautions. Medical experts advised rest, prompting selectors to look domestically. Badoni, who has been on the radar since his IPL exploits, ticked all boxes with a stellar domestic season.
The 24-year-old’s journey from local leagues to national colors is inspiring. In the Vijay Hazare, he notched 350+ runs at a strike rate exceeding 90, while picking crucial breakthroughs. His ambidextrous bowling adds tactical layers, something coach Rahul Dravid appreciates highly.
As India gears up for the opener in Indore, Badoni joins stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shreyas Iyer. The series holds immense importance, serving as a dress rehearsal for upcoming Champions Trophy commitments. Badoni’s aggressive strokeplay could complement the top order’s solidity.
Social media erupted with reactions, from fans hailing it as ‘future star alert’ to analysts debating his spin-handling credentials against NZ’s pace battery. BCCI’s chief selector echoed confidence: ‘Badoni’s form warrants this chance.’ Sundar, meanwhile, begins intensive rehab.
With New Zealand bringing their A-game post T20I series win, the ODIs promise edge-of-the-seat action. Badoni’s story—from IPL super-over hero to international hopeful—embodies cricket’s unpredictability. This series could mark the rise of another homegrown talent.