India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak explained why Ayush Badoni was added to the ODI squad after Washington Sundar’s injury, citing the need for additional bowling options.
India has added Ayush Badoni to their ODI squad for the final two matches against New Zealand after Washington Sundar picked up an injury. Sundar felt sharp pain around his left lower rib while bowling in the series opener at Vadodara.
The team management viewed bowling depth as the main concern. India risked entering matches with only five specialist bowlers, one already struggling physically. Badoni, who has impressed for India A and in domestic cricket, offers part-time bowling support.
Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak explained that modern ODI plans demand extra options. The team needed a player capable of contributing 4-5 overs if required. Badoni’s recent form and flexibility made him the practical choice.
“He’s been playing and performing, and he’s played for India A. Normally, no team would go with five bowlers, if we had an injured Washy and only five bowlers in the last game, who would have completed those overs?” Kotak said in the pre-match press conference
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“So we need to have somebody who can bowl those 4-5 over,s and that’s why he has been selected,” he added.
In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Badoni scored 16 runs across five games. He also delivered figures of 10-0-30-3 for Delhi against Railways, playing a key role in a six-wicket win at Alur.
Meanwhile, India head into the remaining matches after a four-wicket win in the first ODI. The chase of 301 finished with six balls left. India posted 306 for 6 after restricting New Zealand to 300 for 8.
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