India Coach Explains Why Ayush Badoni Got Maiden Call-Up: 'Who Would Have...'

Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak attributed Ayush Badoni’s maiden India call-up for the ODI series against New Zealand to the Delhi man’s ‘A’ team experience and the ability to bowl four-five overs every match. Badoni, 26, was roped in as a replacement for the injured Washington Sundar.

Badoni’s inclusion raised eyebrows as he came in for a proven all-rounder, despite being largely viewed as a specialist batter based on his IPL performances. His recent form with the bat has been modest, with only one score above fifty in his last ten competitive outings. However, he has contributed significantly with the ball in that period, picking up ten wickets with his part-time off-spin, including a four-for against Karnataka in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

“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? So we need to have somebody who can bowl those 4-5 overs, and that’s why he has been selected,” Kotak said during the press conference ahead of the second ODI.

Earlier, Delhi head coach Sarandeep Singh also said Badoni’s relentless focus on improving his bowling over the past year played a key role. Singh described Badoni as a committed professional who embraced the challenge of developing his off-spin despite being widely recognised as an aggressive batter.

He revealed that Badoni was asked to bowl at least seven overs after every batting session, a routine the youngster followed diligently, often exceeding the target. He believes sustained effort has transformed Badoni into a dependable off-spinner, with sharper turn, added variations like the carrom ball and arm ball.

Badoni will be competing with Nitish Kumar Reddy for the all-rounder’s spot in the second ODI in Rajkot on Wednesday.