Ayush Badoni Receives First Call-Up to Team India Amid Washington Sundar's Absence
Aakash Chopra Discusses Badoni's Selection
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra shared his thoughts on Ayush Badoni's recent inclusion in the Indian cricket team, which comes as Washington Sundar is sidelined during the ongoing series against New Zealand. Chopra noted that while this selection might be seen as an 'unpopular choice,' Badoni has demonstrated his capability as a spin bowler for Delhi.
With Sundar missing the remaining two ODIs against New Zealand, Badoni seizes the opportunity for his first call-up to the national team. Although his batting performance in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy has been modest, with only 15 runs across three innings, his bowling has been commendable. He recorded impressive figures of 3/30 against Railways, 1/28 against Services, and 0/21 against Gujarat.
'Unpopular Choice' Explained
On his YouTube channel, Chopra elaborated, "With Washington Sundar unavailable, Ayush Badoni steps in. The selection committee likely sought a direct replacement, which was not feasible. Badoni has bowled extensively and performed well for India A, showcasing his economical bowling in the Vijay Hazare Trophy."
Chopra added, "This selection might be viewed as slightly unpopular since Badoni has yet to accumulate 1,000 runs in List A cricket, and his wicket tally does not suggest he has made a significant breakthrough."
Badoni's List A Performance
In his 27 List A matches, Badoni has scored 693 runs at an average of 36.47, boasting a strike rate exceeding 93, including one century and five half-centuries, with a top score of 100. He has also claimed 18 wickets at an average of 29.72 and an economy rate of 4.54, with best bowling figures of 3/29. Notably, during the South Africa A tour to India last year, he scored a half-century with a notable 66 in the second unofficial ODI, alongside bowling spells of 0/15 and 0/43 in two matches.
Reasons for Other Players' Exclusion
Chopra also addressed the absence of all-rounder Riyan Parag and batter Rinku Singh from the squad. He explained that Parag's recent return from a lengthy injury layoff during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy influenced the decision. As for Rinku Singh, Chopra remarked, "Although he has improved his bowling, he is primarily a batter who bowls occasionally, which may have affected his selection."