IND vs NZ: 3 reasons why India should play Ayush Badoni in third ODI

Ayush Badoni replaced the injured Washington Sundar in India’s ODI squad.

India are pulling their socks up for the climax of the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand (IND vs NZ). The third and final ODI of the series will be played on January 18 at the Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore.

The Men in Blue won the opening game by four wickets in Vadodara, where Virat Kohli showed his class with a match-winning 93 runs. Later, the Black Caps bounced back in the second game by clinching a victory. Now, the third ODI is a do-or-die game for both sides as the three-match series is tied 1-1.

For the final and decisive match of the series, Shubman Gill & Co. need to make some efforts to dominate Black Caps in the last game. They would need a few changes in the playing XI to strengthen their batting and bowling departments.

With the series offering a valuable opportunity to test bench strength, Ayush Badoni is likely to be included in the playing XI. This young player has consistently impressed with both bat and ball at the domestic and franchise levels, and the third ODI is an ideal platform to test his talent in international cricket.

On that note, below are three reasons why India should include Ayush Badoni in the third ODI against New Zealand.

3. India’s Middle Order Needs Composure, Not Experiments 

One of the areas where India have consistently struggled in ODIs is managing the middle overs, especially when early wickets fall. Badoni’s skill set can be effectively used with this goal in mind. This young batsman possesses the ability to anchor the innings, rotate the strike, and score quickly when needed.

Badoni is a stroke-making player who plays it safe. He has the right skills to neutralize pace as well as spin. Against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, having a player like him will be crucial for India. He can provide stability to the Indian team.

2. Preparing the Next Core, Not Just the XI 

Whether India are leading in the series or need a result, the third ODI is an opportunity to invest in young players who are much needed ahead of the upcoming ICC tournaments. India cannot afford to go into the next ICC event with such a limited list of players.

It is high time for someone like Ayush Badoni to be brought forward. The longer such players have to wait to get a chance in international cricket, the more difficult it becomes for them to adapt to the game. Through a game, selectors will be able to check whether he is ready to perform when it matters. 

Badoni’s inclusion in the third ODI against New Zealand would be a strategic and forward-thinking decision. His consistent performances, middle-order versatility, and composed mindset make him a promising option for India’s evolving ODI setup. 

Playing Badoni could not only strengthen India’s current combination but also help shape the team’s future in limited-overs cricket. 

1. Performances that demand a call-up 

Ayush Badoni has proven to be one of the young players who have consistently performed well in Indian domestic cricket in recent seasons. His ability to score runs in all formats of the game, especially under pressure, makes him a steady hand in the middle order.

His performances in high-pressure T20 and List A matches demonstrate his mental toughness, which is crucial for one-day format cricket.

The Indian team’s selection policy suggests rewarding local consistency. It will be in line with this if Badoni were to play the third ODI. This will not only boost the player’s confidence but will also ensure that consistent good performance at the grassroots level is recognized and rewarded.

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