Ayush Badoni Joins India ODI Squad for New Zealand Series, Shares Insights on Kohli’s Advice
All-rounder Ayush Badoni has received a call-up to the Indian ODI squad for the ongoing series against New Zealand following an injury to Washington Sundar. The Delhi cricketer joined the national team setup in Rajkot ahead of the second match, expressing his readiness to fulfill any batting or bowling assignment required by the team management.
What Happened
During the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on January 12, 2026, Washington Sundar experienced acute-onset discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling. To fill the vacancy, the Indian team management named the 26-year-old Badoni as Sundar’s replacement. Badoni subsequently travelled to Rajkot to link up with the squad for the second fixture of the series.
Badoni’s selection addresses India’s requirement for a functional sixth bowling option who can reliably contribute four to five overs. Prior to receiving his maiden senior call-up, the Lucknow Super Giants player had accumulated 693 runs across 27 List A games at an average of 36.47 for Delhi.
Key Highlights
- Injury Replacement: Badoni replaces Washington Sundar, who suffered a rib-area issue during the series opener in Vadodara.
- Multi-Skilled Role: India sought an option capable of delivering 4 to 5 overs with the ball alongside batting contributions.
- Familiarity with Leadership: Badoni previously worked under current India head coach Gautam Gambhir during Gambhir’s tenure as Lucknow Super Giants mentor in 2022 and 2023.
- Adaptable Record: Badoni bowled in every game during his recent India A appearances and demonstrated versatility in domestic cricket by both opening the batting and playing in the middle order.
- Mentorship from Kohli: Badoni shared Delhi’s domestic dressing room with Virat Kohli in the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy across 2025 and 2026, receiving guidance on dominating bowlers and maintaining a positive mindset.
Why This Matters
India’s ODI setup places significant value on batting depth complemented by supplementary bowling options. Badoni’s recent domestic and India A track record shows regular bowling contributions alongside tactical flexibility in the batting order. Having operated as an opener as well as a middle-order player in domestic fixtures, his inclusion provides tactical variety for team combinations without disrupting the overall balance.
Speaking to India TV regarding his readiness, Badoni stated that he did not have direct conversations with the selection committee but remains prepared for any assigned role. He noted that his recent India A exposure involved bowling in every game and featuring in the middle order, while his domestic outings included opening duties.
Badoni also reflected on the advice given by veteran batter Virat Kohli during their time playing together for Delhi. He explained that Kohli shared insights on methods to dominate opposition bowling attacks and encouraged maintaining an active, positive attitude both on and off the field.
What to Watch Next
Badoni will be available for selection as India prepares for the second ODI against New Zealand in Rajkot. Observers will watch to see if he earns an international debut and how the team management integrates his all-round capabilities into the playing XI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Ayush Badoni added to the Indian ODI squad?
Badoni was drafted into the squad as an injury replacement for Washington Sundar, who sustained left lower rib discomfort during the first ODI in Vadodara.
What are Ayush Badoni’s domestic List A statistics?
Before his national call-up, Badoni had scored 693 runs in 27 List A matches at a batting average of 36.47.
What guidance did Virat Kohli share with Badoni?
While sharing the Delhi dressing room during Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy fixtures in 2025 and 2026, Kohli advised Badoni on approaches to dominate opposing bowlers and maintain a positive mindset on and off the field.
Source: Crictracker