Ayush Badoni, the newest competitor to India’s ODI squad, feels that his evolution into a reliable all-rounder played a key role in earning his maiden national call-up during the ongoing home series against New Zealand. The Delhi cricketer was drafted in as a surprise replacement for Washington Sundar, who suffered a side strain in the series opener in Vadodara.
Badoni had been representing Delhi in the 2025–26 Vijay Hazare Trophy before linking up with the Indian team ahead of the second ODI at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. The 26-year-old is yet to make his international debut, with fellow all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy getting the nod in the playing XI in Sundar’s absence.
The youngster also shared how he was informed about his selection to the senior India side just a day before a knockout encounter in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
“I was with the Delhi team, I was captain there and we had a match the next day, quarter finals against Vidarbha, it was then that I got to know (about the call-up). Priyansh (Arya) was my roommate, and I told him that it could happen, and he may have to lead the side because I might have to go,” Badoni said in an interaction released by bcci.tv.
Ayush Badoni Credits Bowling Progress For Emergence As Dependable All-Rounder
Ayush Badoni said that the progress he has made as a bowler in recent years played a crucial role in establishing him as a dependable all-round option.
“Earlier I used to do batting, but since the last two years, I have been focusing a lot on my bowling. I always feel like I can take wickets, and contribute to the team with my bowling, so I got the benefit of being an all-rounder. I have bowled a lot for Delhi and got wickets, so I have benefitted from it,” he added.
Ayush Badoni claimed four wickets in five matches during this season’s Vijay Hazare Trophy, highlighted by an impressive spell of 3 for 30 against Railways. He also made an impact with the ball in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, recording his career-best T20 figures of 4 for 12 in a 45-run victory over Karnataka.
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