In a significant last-minute shuffle, the India A squad for the Rising Stars Asia Cup has been altered. An unexpected opportunity has opened for a young talent as one of the team's senior figures steps aside, reshaping the team's dynamics.
Patidar's Unexpected Withdrawal
The Board of
Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Sunday that Rajat Patidar has been withdrawn from the India A squad for the upcoming ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup. Patidar, who was initially named vice-captain, communicated to the board that he should not be considered for selection in the 50-over format as he continues to manage existing injuries. This move is aimed at managing his fitness and workload. The decision came as a surprise, especially since Patidar was recently named captain of Madhya Pradesh for the domestic T20 competition, the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His absence leaves a significant gap in experience in the India A middle order for the tournament in Doha.
Enter Ayush Badoni
Stepping into the breach is Ayush Badoni, the dynamic right-handed batter from Delhi. Known for his aggressive batting and ability to finish innings under pressure, Badoni has been rewarded for a stellar run of form in domestic cricket. The Delhi captain recently turned heads by scoring consecutive double centuries in the Ranji Trophy, making a compelling case for his selection. Badoni, who plays for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, is seen as a versatile player who can bat anywhere in the order and also contribute with his handy off-spin bowling. This will not be his first senior national call-up, having previously been named as an injury replacement for the main Indian ODI squad in January 2026, though he did not make his debut.
A New Team Dynamic
Patidar's withdrawal and Badoni's inclusion create a fascinating shift in the India A squad's composition. Patidar was slated to be a senior anchor in the middle order, but Badoni brings a different, more explosive dimension. Renowned as a finisher, his ability to accelerate in the death overs could be a crucial asset in the 50-over format. With Patidar out, the selection committee has also named Rinku Singh as the new vice-captain to skipper Tilak Varma. The squad now features a powerful batting lineup with T20 specialists like Abhishek Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, and Rinku, complemented by Badoni's finishing prowess. This change suggests a strategic pivot towards a more aggressive, power-hitting middle order.
The Rising Stars Platform
The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup, set to be held in Doha, Qatar, from November 19 to 29, is a critical tournament for players on the cusp of national selection. This year, the tournament shifts to a 50nd format, providing a different challenge from the T20 events of the past. India A is placed in Group B alongside Pakistan A, Nepal, and the UAE. The tournament serves as a perfect stage for performers in domestic cricket and the IPL to prove their mettle in a competitive international environment. A strong showing here can directly impact a player's chances of breaking into the senior national team, making it a highstaked competition for every member of the squad.
What's Next for India A
India A will kick off their campaign against Nepal on November 20, followed by the highly anticipated clash against Pakistan A on November 22. All eyes will be on how the revamped squad performs. For Ayush Badoni, this is a golden opportunity to translate his formidable domestic and IPL form onto the international 'A' team stage. He will be expected to take on the finisher's role, a position that carries immense pressure and responsibility. The team management will look for him to provide the latendinnings impetus that can turn a good score into a matchwinning one. How he adapts to this role could be one of the defining stories of India A's campaign.
