Washington Sundar’s injury ahead of the final two ODIs against New Zealand has opened the door for Delhi youngster Ayush Badoni, but his inclusion has sparked a mixed reaction among fans and former players. While some believed names like Riyan Parag or Rinku Singh could have been considered, the team management has backed Badoni as a like-for-like replacement, valuing his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.

Addressing the selection debate ahead of the second ODI, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak explained the rationale behind bringing Badoni into the squad. Kotak underlined the importance of balance in the XI, particularly the need for a sixth bowling option in modern ODI cricket. With Sundar sidelined, India required someone who could offer part-time overs without compromising batting depth.

“He has been playing consistently and performing well,” Sitanshu Kotak said during the press conference. “He has delivered in India A one-day matches and has done well in the IPL. When Washington is unavailable, you can’t go into a match with only five bowlers. If someone gets injured mid-innings, you need another option who can bowl four or five overs if required. Ayush fits that role.”

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Sitanshu Kotak further highlighted that while Sundar is a genuine all-rounder, teams often have to adjust based on available resources. “Sometimes you get a bowling all-rounder, sometimes a batting all-rounder who can bowl a bit. Ayush has shown that he can contribute in both departments, which makes him a strong squad option,” he added.

Badoni’s List A numbers support the management’s faith. In 27 matches, the 26-year-old has scored 693 runs at an average of 36.47, striking at over 93. His tally includes a century and five half-centuries, underlining his consistency in the format. With the ball, his right-arm off-spin has fetched him 18 wickets at an average of 29.72, with an economy rate of 4.54 — respectable figures for a part-time bowler.

His performances at the India A level have also been encouraging. During South Africa A’s tour of India last year, Badoni scored a fluent 66 in the second unofficial ODI and delivered tidy bowling spells, showcasing control even when wickets didn’t come his way. Against Australia A, he picked up three wickets across two matches at an impressive average of 16.33, further strengthening his all-round credentials.

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In the IPL, Badoni has carved out a niche as a reliable middle-order batter for Lucknow Super Giants. Across 56 matches, he has accumulated 963 runs at a strike rate of 138.56, including six fifties, often rescuing his side in pressure situations. While his international debut may still depend on team combination, Badoni’s selection reflects India’s continued emphasis on adaptable, multi-skilled cricketers in white-ball cricket.