Aakash Chopra Questions Ayush Badoni’s Selection for India vs New Zealand ODIs
The Indian cricketing world is abuzz after Ayush Badoni received his maiden senior ODI call-up in the ongoing India vs New Zealand 2026 ODI series, replacing the injured Washington Sundar for the second and third matches. While many have welcomed the Delhi batter’s rise, former India opener Aakash Chopra has publicly questioned the rationale behind the decision, noting that Badoni “hasn’t scored even 1,000 runs in List-A cricket.” The remark has sparked a wider debate around merit, performance, and India’s team selection policy.
Badoni’s opportunity emerged after Washington Sundar sustained a rib injury during the first ODI in Vadodara. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) subsequently confirmed that Sundar would miss the remaining fixtures of the three-match series. The injury occurred while he was bowling and ultimately ruled him out, prompting selectors to draft Badoni into the squad travelling to Rajkot for the second ODI.
For Badoni, the call-up marks a significant milestone, as it is his first inclusion in India’s 50-over setup. The 26-year-old has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, particularly in the first-class format. He has amassed 1,681 runs in 21 matches at an impressive average close to 58, including multiple centuries and a double hundred. Badoni also offers off-spin bowling, adding all-round value - an aspect selectors likely considered alongside his batting credentials.
Badoni’s opportunity emerged after Washington Sundar sustained a rib injury during the first ODI in Vadodara. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) subsequently confirmed that Sundar would miss the remaining fixtures of the three-match series. The injury occurred while he was bowling and ultimately ruled him out, prompting selectors to draft Badoni into the squad travelling to Rajkot for the second ODI.
For Badoni, the call-up marks a significant milestone, as it is his first inclusion in India’s 50-over setup. The 26-year-old has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, particularly in the first-class format. He has amassed 1,681 runs in 21 matches at an impressive average close to 58, including multiple centuries and a double hundred. Badoni also offers off-spin bowling, adding all-round value - an aspect selectors likely considered alongside his batting credentials.
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