Why is Washington Sundar Missing the NZ ODIs? Ayush Badoni Steps In!
Synopsis
In a significant development, the BCCI has confirmed that Washington Sundar is out of the ODI series against New Zealand due to injury. Ayush Badoni receives his first national call-up, stepping into the squad at a crucial time. Can this fresh talent make an impact? Read on for more details!
Key Takeaways
Washington Sundar ruled out of the ODI series due to injury.
Ayush Badoni called up as replacement, marking his first national selection.
Badoni has impressive stats in List A cricket.
Upcoming matches crucial for India's preparation for the T20 World Cup.
Injury woes continue to affect the team dynamics.
Mumbai, Jan 12 (NationPress) The BCCI has officially announced that all-rounder Washington Sundar will be unavailable for the remainder of the ODI series against New Zealand due to a side strain.
In his stead, the BCCI has summoned Ayush Badoni, a 26-year-old player, marking his first call-up to the national team.
Badoni, who has featured in 27 List A matches, has amassed a total of 693 runs and has taken 18 wickets. He is set to join the squad in Rajkot, where the second ODI is scheduled to commence on Wednesday.
According to reports, Washington Sundar experienced sudden discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara on Sunday. He will undergo additional scans, and the BCCI Medical Team plans to consult specialists. Consequently, Sundar has been ruled out of the final two matches in the ODI series.
The statement from the BCCI noted, "The Men’s Selection Committee has appointed Ayush Badoni as his replacement, and he will join the squad in Rajkot for the second ODI."
This injury marks the second significant setback for India in the ODI series, following Rishabh Pant's exclusion just days before the first ODI in Vadodara. The wicketkeeper-batter was sidelined due to a side strain last week, with Dhruv Jurel stepping in for him.
Additionally, Tilak Varma, who recently underwent surgery for a groin injury, has also been ruled out of the first three T20Is in the upcoming five-match series, which is set to kick off on January 21 at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur.
This situation presents a notable challenge for the Indian team, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching. Currently, Sundar remains part of India’s World Cup squad, but it is uncertain whether this reliable yet injury-prone player will be fit in time for the T20I series.
India’s revised squad for the 2nd and 3rd ODIs includes: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (wk), Shreyas Iyer (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), and Ayush Badoni.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge the impact of Washington Sundar's absence on the Indian cricket team. While injuries are part of the sport, the timing is unfortunate as the team prepares for significant upcoming matches. The inclusion of Ayush Badoni presents an opportunity for fresh talent, and it’s essential to support this transition, keeping in mind the larger picture of Indian cricket's future.
NationPress
20 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Washington Sundar out of the ODI series?
Washington Sundar is sidelined due to a side strain he sustained during the first ODI against New Zealand.
Who is replacing Washington Sundar?
Ayush Badoni has been called up as Washington Sundar's replacement for the remaining ODIs.
What has been Ayush Badoni's performance in List A cricket?
Ayush Badoni has played 27 List A matches, scoring 693 runs and taking 18 wickets.
When is the second ODI scheduled?
The second ODI is set to take place on Wednesday in Rajkot.
What are the implications of Sundar's injury on the team?
Sundar's absence is a setback for India, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching, creating uncertainty about his fitness for upcoming matches.
