Mohammad Kaif reveals Washington Sundar’s replacement in India’s playing XI for 2nd ODI

Former Indian batter Mohammad Kaif has stated that while Ayush Badoni replacing Washington Sundar in the ODI squad is a decent decision, he added that he would love to see Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI for the second ODI in Rajkot.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif asserted that with pacers finding a good amount of swing in the month of January, it would be wise to have a fast bowler instead of an all-rounder in the playing XI.

“I feel that if he (Ayush) is given a chance after a little wait, it would be good. But because India are looking for an all-rounder, they could also push Ayush there. However, I feel if you also push Arshdeep Singh, having four fast bowlers and batting up to number seven, it won’t be a bad option on a good pitch,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.

“If you go for like to like, then you mentioned Badoni’s name there. After that, who is left in the squad? Right now, Jaiswal is sitting out, and who else? Arshdeep Singh is there. So I feel maybe you would want Ayush to sit and let him see how people play at the international level. It will be good for him, just to see how players approach games at the international stage. He is a young player, so I would want Arshdeep Singh to get a chance,” he added.

Notably, Washington Sundar has been ruled out of the remaining two ODIs after finding discomfort in his lower left rib cage area. Batting all-rounder Ayush Badoni has received his maiden call-up. 

“Jadeja and Kuldeep are already there as two spinners. And in yesterday’s match, as you saw, in January there is a lot of swing. All the wickets fell to fast bowlers. But the main problem will be that this India team needs batting up to number eight. Ashdeep Singh does not contribute with the bat, so in that case, you would want an all-rounder,” he concluded.

India heads to Rajkot for the second ODI against New Zealand, scheduled to start on Wednesday, January 14.

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