Ayush Badoni Celebrates First Call-Up to Indian ODI Squad
Ayush Badoni's Exciting Journey
Indian cricketer Ayush Badoni shared his excitement regarding his first selection for the national team, expressing gratitude for being included in the ODI squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand. His selection comes after Washington Sundar, a bowling all-rounder, was sidelined due to an injury during the ongoing series.
"Receiving the call was an incredible moment for me, and I am truly thankful for this opportunity. I got the news late at night, so I couldn't inform my family right away. They found out in the morning and were overjoyed and proud," Badoni mentioned in a video released by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). He also noted the warm welcome he received from coaches and teammates, which made him feel at home.
Transitioning to an All-Rounder
Badoni revealed that he has concentrated on enhancing his bowling skills over the past two years, which has paid off. He feels confident in his ability to contribute to the team by taking wickets, having performed well for his domestic team, Delhi, which ultimately led to his selection for the national squad.
"Previously, I focused mainly on batting, but for the last two years, I've prioritized my bowling. I believe I can take wickets and help the team in that aspect. My efforts with the Delhi team have been fruitful, and I have taken several wickets, which contributed to my selection," he concluded.
Domestic and 'A' Team Achievements
In his 27 List A matches, Badoni has accumulated 693 runs with an average of 36.47 and 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 his best bowling figures being 3/29.
During last year's South Africa A tour to India, Badoni scored a half-century with a notable 66 in the second unofficial ODI and had bowling figures of 0/15 in four overs and 0/43 in seven overs across two matches. Additionally, in the Australia A tour to India last year, he took three wickets in two matches, averaging 16.33, and scored 21 runs in one innings.
IPL Performance
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Badoni has played 56 matches and batted in 46 innings for the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), amassing 963 runs at an average of 26.75 and a strike rate of 138.56, which includes six half-centuries and a highest score of 74.