Gautam Gambhir faces netizens’ anger after Ayush Badoni’s ODI call-up

Ayush Badoni’s maiden ODI call-up has sparked a lively debate among Indian cricket fans, with his inclusion for the ongoing series against New Zealand drawing mixed reactions on social media. The 26-year-old all-rounder was named as a replacement for Washington Sundar, who was ruled out of the remainder of the three-match ODI series after suffering a strain in his left lower rib area. While the call-up marks a major milestone in Badoni’s career, not everyone has welcomed the decision.

Social Media Questions the Selection

Soon after the squad update was announced, sections of fans took to social media to question Badoni’s inclusion. Critics were quick to point at his modest List A record, highlighting that he has scored 693 runs in 22 innings and picked up 22 wickets so far. His ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign has also been underwhelming, with just 16 runs from three innings at an average of eight.

Some users went a step further, accusing head coach Gautam Gambhir of favouritism. The claims stem from Gambhir’s past association with Badoni at Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, as well as their shared roots in Delhi’s domestic setup. A few fans even brought Harshit Rana into the conversation, suggesting a pattern of bias in recent selections.

IPL Form Working in Badoni’s Favour

Despite the criticism, Badoni’s supporters argue that his IPL performances justify the opportunity. During the 2025 season, he scored 329 runs in 11 innings, often impressing with his composure under pressure. That exposure at the highest level, combined with his all-round skillset, appears to have worked in his favour as the selectors looked for a like-for-like replacement for Sundar.

Coach Backs Badoni’s Readiness

Badoni’s coach, Sarandeep Singh, has strongly backed the selection, insisting that the all-rounder is ready for international cricket “right away.” Speaking to IANS, Sarandeep said Badoni’s call-up was long overdue and a reward for consistent improvement over the past couple of years.

“He has been performing for the last two years, especially with the bat, and with the ball as well. He has improved his bowling a lot,” Sarandeep said, adding that Badoni fits the all-rounder role Sundar vacated due to injury.

Call-Up Comes Mid-Tournament

The timing of the call-up added another twist to the story. Badoni was training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru on Monday morning, preparing for Delhi’s Vijay Hazare Trophy quarterfinal against Vidarbha, when he received the news. He immediately left the state squad to join the Indian team in Rajkot ahead of the second ODI on Wednesday.

Although he will miss a crucial knockout match for Delhi, his coach admitted there was only happiness surrounding the development.

“We were practising for the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and tomorrow we have a quarter-final. But he got a call for the Indian team. We are very, very happy for him because he deserved this call,” Sarandeep said.

Opportunity Amid the Noise

For Ayush Badoni, the debate surrounding his selection is now background noise. With a maiden ODI call-up in hand, the focus shifts to what he can do if given a chance on the field. Whether he silences critics or fuels further discussion will depend entirely on his performances but for now, the Delhi all-rounder has a golden opportunity to turn promise into proof on the international stage.