India predicted XI for 2nd ODI vs New Zealand: Big call expected after Washington Sundar setback

Can Ayush Badoni make his debut in the second match against New Zealand? Check India's predicted XI and possible changes.

India vs New Zealand, 2nd ODI, Predicted XI: The second ODI of the India and New Zealand series will take place on Wednesday, January 14, at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. India won the first ODI on Sunday, January 11, by four wickets, taking a 1-0 lead.

If India wins the second match, they will secure an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three match series. The big question is what India’s playing XI will look like for this crucial game.

Washington Sundar ruled out, Ayush Badoni joins squad

All-rounder Washington Sundar, who played in the first ODI, has been ruled out due to injury. He has been replaced by Ayush Badoni, a right-handed batsman from Delhi who plays for Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL.

Badoni has experience at the domestic level but is yet to make his debut for India. His inclusion opens up possibilities for India in the number five batting position.

Badoni’s domestic performance

Badoni has performed impressively in domestic cricket:

• Runs: 693 runs in 27 List A matches
• Wickets: 18 wickets
• Bowling: Can bowl spin effectively

He is a strong contender if India chooses a spin-bowling all-rounder to strengthen the middle order.

Competition for the Number five spot: Badoni vs Nitish Reddy

If India opts for a fast-bowling all-rounder, Nitish Kumar Reddy is available. However, with three pacers – Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, and Harshit Rana – already in the squad, it seems unlikely Reddy will make the XI.

Badoni also has an advantage over Reddy as he can bat and bowl spin, giving India more flexibility.

Wicketkeeping options: Dhruv Jurel and KL Rahul

Before the series, Rishabh Pant was injured, leading to the inclusion of Dhruv Jurel. Jurel did not play in the first ODI, with KL Rahul handling the wicketkeeping duties.

Jurel cannot bowl, whereas Badoni can, giving him an edge in the squad selection for the upcoming match.

Possible changes in India’s pace and spin attack

Captain Shubman Gill said that some changes might be expected in the upcoming matches. Possible bowling adjustments include:

• Pace options: Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh (rotation policy possible)
• Spin option: Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja (Sundar injured)

The final spot in the XI could see a competition between Ayush Badoni and Nitish Kumar Reddy, depending on India’s approach to the middle order and all-round balance.

India 2nd ODI, Predicted XI:

Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ayush Badoni, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

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