India’s preparations for the crucial ODI series against New Zealand have been hit by an untimely injury, forcing the team management to make a swift change to the squad. Just days into the series, an injury setback has once again highlighted the physical demands of a packed international calendar.
The development has placed focus on squad depth and adaptability, as selectors move quickly to ensure balance in the playing group. With the series holding significance ahead of upcoming global tournaments, every selection decision is being closely scrutinised.
As one player exits due to fitness concerns, another steps into the spotlight with a maiden international call-up, underlining both the challenges and opportunities that injuries can create in elite cricket.
Washington Sundar Ruled Out With Rib Injury
India allrounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand after sustaining a rib injury during the opening match in Vadodara. The injury occurred while he was bowling, forcing him to leave the field midway through the New Zealand innings.
Despite visible discomfort, Washington showed determination by returning to bat later in the match at No. 8, contributing to India’s four-wicket victory. However, medical assessments following the game revealed that the injury required further attention.
The setback means Washington will miss the remaining matches of the ODI series, dealing a blow to India’s allround options at a time when balance between bat and ball is crucial.
BCCI Confirms Medical Assessment And Scans
In an official statement, the Board of Control for Cricket in India confirmed that Washington reported acute discomfort in his left lower rib area during the match. The board stated that he will undergo further scans to assess the extent of the injury.
Following these scans, the BCCI medical team is expected to consult specialists before determining the timeline for his return. Such a cautious approach reflects the importance of player fitness ahead of a busy international schedule.
For Washington, the immediate focus will be recovery, as recurring injuries have disrupted his consistency at the international level in recent seasons.
On-Field Incident During First ODI
Washington Sundar bowled only five overs in the first ODI against New Zealand before walking off the field. He conceded 27 runs and appeared uncomfortable after experiencing pain while delivering his spells.
Earlier, he had also bowled three overs for 24 runs in the powerplay during India’s fifth T20I against South Africa in December, reflecting his regular role as a frontline spin option in white-ball cricket.
The injury during the Vadodara ODI, however, proved significant enough to prevent him from continuing in the field, raising immediate concerns among team staff.
Ayush Badoni Receives Maiden Call-Up
To cover for Washington’s absence, the selectors have brought in Ayush Badoni, marking his first-ever call-up to the senior Indian team. The 26-year-old batter has steadily built a reputation through consistent domestic performances.
Badoni has featured in 27 List A matches, averaging 36.47, with one century and five half-centuries to his name. His ability to perform under pressure, particularly in the middle and lower order, has been a key factor behind his selection.
The call-up represents a significant milestone in Badoni’s career and an opportunity to transition from domestic and franchise cricket to the international stage.
Badoni’s Domestic And IPL Experience
Although primarily known as a batter, Badoni has been working on expanding his skill set. He has shown a willingness to adapt to different roles, including batting down the order and contributing with part-time offspin.
In the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy for Delhi, Badoni has bowled 22 overs across three innings, picking up four wickets at an impressive average of 19.75 and an economy rate of 3.59.
He also brings valuable IPL experience, having played 56 matches for Lucknow Super Giants. Exposure to high-pressure situations in franchise cricket is expected to aid his transition to international cricket.
Batting Strength In Middle And Lower Order
While his batting returns this season have been modest, Badoni’s overall record highlights his effectiveness in middle-order roles. His lone List A century came while batting at No. 5, demonstrating his capability to build innings under pressure.
Over the years, he has developed a reputation for stabilising innings and accelerating when required, skills that could be useful in India’s ODI setup.
Team management views his versatility as a key asset, particularly in scenarios where balance and flexibility are essential.
India’s Growing Injury Concerns
Washington Sundar is the third Indian player to be sidelined due to injury in recent days. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant was ruled out of the ODI series after suffering a side strain.
Meanwhile, Tilak Varma will miss the first three T20Is that follow the ODI series due to a groin injury that required surgery.
The spate of injuries has tested India’s bench strength and placed added responsibility on replacement players stepping into key roles.
Captain Shubman Gill’s Update
Following India’s win in the first ODI, captain Shubman Gill addressed concerns around Washington’s fitness. He confirmed that the allrounder had suffered a side strain and would undergo scans after the match.
Gill’s update reflected cautious optimism at the time, though subsequent assessments led to the decision to rule Washington out of the remainder of the series.
The captain’s comments also highlighted the importance of transparent communication regarding player fitness.
Upcoming Matches Against New Zealand
After the opening ODI in Vadodara, India and New Zealand are set to face off in Rajkot on January 14 and Indore on January 18 to complete the three-match ODI series.
These matches will play a key role in shaping team combinations and assessing player form ahead of the transition to the T20 format.
With a tightly packed schedule, managing player workload remains a priority for both teams.
Focus Shifts To Five-Match T20I Series
Following the ODIs, attention will turn to a five-match T20I series, beginning in Nagpur on January 21 and continuing in Raipur, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam and Thiruvananthapuram.
The T20I series is seen as a crucial preparatory phase ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup, to be held in India and Sri Lanka in February and March.
Performances in these matches are likely to influence final squad selections for the global tournament.
Opportunity And Challenge For Team India
While Washington Sundar’s injury is a setback, it also opens the door for new talent to gain exposure at the highest level.
For Ayush Badoni, this call-up represents a chance to showcase his skills and adaptability on the international stage.
As India navigates injuries and transitions, the series against New Zealand will test the team’s depth, resilience and readiness for the challenges ahead.
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