India have been dealt a blow during the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand, with all-rounder Washington Sundar being sidelined for the remaining matches due to a rib injury. The injury happened in the first ODI and resulted in seeking immediate replacements for the remainder of series.
Sundar sustained the injury while bowling in the first ODI against New Zealand. He had felt pain around his rib cage and couldn’t complete bowling all ten overs. While Jadeja was seen hobbling around till the end of the innings, he didn’t take the field during Australia’s chase and India will now monitor Jadjeja in view his selection ahead of 2nd Test match at Melbourne. Upon further assessment, Sundar was ruled out of the rest of the matches in the series.
It was later reported by the India team management that Sundar will need rest, and more scans to determine the extent of damage. It is an area that can be especially difficult for all-rounders, who have to throw themselves into the bowling at full pelt and also receive short deliveries or attack the short ball while batting. The ruling him out was precautionary, a measure taken to not make the injury worse.
Washington Sundar’s unavailability is a big loss for India considering his increasing value in the limited-overs format. Sundar is a steady influence with his economical off-spin and also bats deep. In the last couple of years, he has cemented himself as a dependable all-rounder and balanced the playing XI on several occasions. His impressive performances at international level and in the domestic cricket have given him a reputation as an asset, especially in the white-ball formats.
After Sundar’s departure, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Ayush Badoni as his replacement in the ODI squad. This selection is the first for Badoni in India’s ODI side, a massive step forward in his career. Consistently strong performances for his domestic, and latterly IPL sides earned Badoni the respect of scouts with his composure at the crease, clean hitting and ability to adapt to a changing situation.
It’s a key development for Badoni, who receives his opportunity at an important juncture. Opportunity For Vihari To Learn In A Competitive Series Well, getting into an International side in the middle of a bilaterals would give him the opportunity to learn from the senior players and also add himself into contention for a place in playing XI. Though better known as a batsman, his return provides the team management with more options in batting order.
The ODI series against New Zealand is a step in India’s preparation ahead of the international assignments to be held in coming times. Several big tournaments are approaching and player fitness has been a top priority among team management. Injuries at this stage would be a selection concern and the support staff has been given complete responsibility to track Sundar’s progress.
Meanwhile, India would want to regroup fast and shuffle their combination for the rest of the games in the series. There will be a focus on maintaining momentum, giving chances to novices and making sure that the more senior members are kept in form and fit.
Washington Sundar too, fans will like him to get well soon. If properly handled, the injury shouldn’t threaten Gurley’s long-term outlook, but beware will be the watchword. His return to complete fitness is critical to India’s plans in ODIs as well as other limited-overs formats in the future.
