Kris Srikkanth Critiques Selection of Ayush Badoni for ODIs Against New Zealand

Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth has raised concerns over the selection of Ayush Badoni for the ODIs against New Zealand, questioning the decision on his YouTube channel. He highlighted Badoni's IPL connections with Gautam Gambhir and suggested that Axar Patel would have been a more logical choice as a replacement for Washington Sundar. Srikkanth pointed out Badoni's modest domestic performance and emphasized Axar's impressive recent form, arguing that the experienced all-rounder should have been prioritized. This critique sheds light on the ongoing discussions surrounding player selections in Indian cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 10:45 IST

Srikkanth Questions Badoni's Inclusion

Kris Srikkanth, a former Indian cricketer, has expressed his discontent regarding the selection of Ayush Badoni for the upcoming ODIs against New Zealand. Despite India's victory in the first match of the three-match series, Washington Sundar's rib injury necessitated a replacement, leading selectors to choose the uncapped Badoni, a decision that Srikkanth openly criticized.

Concerns Over Selection Process

In a recent discussion on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth highlighted Badoni's ties to the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, where Gautam Gambhir was a mentor. He questioned the rationale behind the selection, stating, "Badoni played at LSG, and he (Gambhir) was the mentor there. I don’t see any other reason. On what basis? You should have some sense in selection."

Badoni's Recent Performance

Badoni earned his first call-up to the national team while playing for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26. However, his recent domestic performance has been underwhelming, accumulating only 16 runs in three innings at an average of 8.00 and taking four wickets across 22 overs. In the IPL, he has scored 963 runs in 56 matches, averaging 26.75 with a strike rate of 138.56, along with four wickets in seven innings.

Srikkanth Advocates for Axar Patel

Srikkanth believes that Axar Patel would have been a more suitable replacement for Sundar. He stated, "Ayush Badoni with this performance, no chance. He has not done anything great. If an all-rounder is missing, why not bring in Axar Patel? He is a genuine all-rounder in all formats."

Axar's Impressive Recent Form

Srikkanth emphasized Axar's recent achievements in both international and domestic cricket. In his last ODI series, Axar scored 75 runs in two innings and took three wickets. He also shone in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, scoring 130 against Andhra Pradesh and achieving bowling figures of 2/27, along with 73 runs against Odisha.

Conclusion on Selection Choices

In conclusion, Srikkanth argued that it was unjust to overlook Axar in favor of Badoni, asserting that the experienced all-rounder should have been the obvious choice.