Ayush Badoni Gets Maiden India Call-Up as Washington Sundar Ruled Out of NZ ODIs
Washington Sundar ruled out of New Zealand ODIs due to rib injury; Ayush Badoni earns maiden India call-up.
India suffered a setback in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand as all-rounder Washington Sundar was ruled out due to injury, the BCCI confirmed on Monday. Sundar experienced acute discomfort in his left lower rib area while bowling during the first ODI at the BCA Stadium in Vadodara. The injury forced him out of the remainder of the series, pending further medical evaluation.
According to the BCCI, Sundar will undergo additional scans, after which the medical team will consult specialists to assess the extent of the injury. In response, the selection committee named Ayush Badoni as his replacement, marking the young all-rounder’s maiden call-up to the Indian ODI squad. Badoni is set to join the team in Rajkot ahead of the second ODI on Wednesday.
Despite Sundar’s injury, India began the series on a positive note with a four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the opening match. Chasing a challenging target of 301, the Indian batting unit delivered a composed and controlled performance, sealing the win in 49 overs and taking a 1–0 lead in the series.
Also Read: Smriti Mandhana Eyes T20 World Cup Glory to Make India Top Women's Team
Captain Shubman Gill led from the front with a steady 56 off 71 balls, anchoring the chase at the top of the order. However, the standout performance came from Virat Kohli, who played a fluent knock of 93 off 91 deliveries, guiding India through a tricky phase and keeping the chase firmly on track.
Reflecting on the win, Gill highlighted the importance of mental focus during run chases and praised Kohli’s batting mastery. He also spoke about team selection and bowling rotations, explaining that with limited ODI fixtures, the management aims to rotate players and provide opportunities, particularly in the pace department.
As India prepares for the next fixture, attention will be on Ayush Badoni’s integration into the squad and how the team reshapes its balance in Sundar’s absence, while continuing to build momentum in the series.
Also Read: New Zealand Prioritizes India Series Over T20 World Cup Prep: Daryl Mitchell
