The inclusion of young Delhi all-rounder Ayush Badoni in the Indian squad for the remaining two ODIs against New Zealand has sparked significant debate among fans and experts, with former India opener Aakash Chopra describing it as a potentially "unpopular choice." Badoni was named as a replacement for injured all-rounder Washington Sundar, who will miss the rest of the series. While acknowledging the selection committee's intent to find a like-for-like replacement, Chopra noted on his YouTube channel that Badoni's domestic numbers in List A cricket do not yet reflect a breakthrough performance, having scored fewer than 1,000 runs and taken a modest number of wickets across his career.

Chopra highlighted Badoni's economical bowling in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi, including impressive figures of 3/30 in 10 overs against Railways, 1/28 in seven overs against Services, and 0/21 in five overs against Gujarat. He pointed out that Badoni has also bowled useful spells for India A and possesses the off-spin option the team needs to maintain bowling depth. "The selection committee was looking for a like-for-like replacement, and that is not available," Chopra explained, adding that the choice prioritizes Badoni's ability to contribute with both bat and ball over raw statistical dominance.

The commentator addressed why other popular alternatives were overlooked. Riyan Parag, despite his all-round potential, is still regaining full fitness after a prolonged injury layoff during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Meanwhile, Rinku Singh, a dynamic middle-order batter, was not considered a true bowling option. "He is a batter who bowls occasionally," Chopra remarked, underscoring the team's requirement for a more reliable sixth bowling choice in white-ball cricket.

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Badoni brings respectable credentials to the squad. In 27 List A matches, the 22-year-old has scored 693 runs at an average of 36.47 and a strike rate above 93, featuring one century and five fifties, with a highest score of 100. His bowling record includes 18 wickets at an average of 29.72 and an economy rate of 4.54. Recent India A performances further support his selection, including a 66-run knock against South Africa A last year, complemented by economical spells.

India's deep talent pool ensures that selections rarely satisfy everyone, and Badoni's maiden call-up exemplifies this reality. As the series against New Zealand continues, the focus will shift to whether the youngster can justify the faith shown by chief selector and head coach Gautam Gambhir with impactful contributions on the field. The ongoing discussion reflects the high stakes and passionate scrutiny that accompany every Team India decision.

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