Bhubaneswar, Jan. 13 -- Ayush Badoni's first-ever call-up to India's ODI squad for the remaining two matches against New Zealand has ignited a fierce debate among fans and experts alike. The young all-rounder was drafted into the team after Washington Sundar was ruled out of the series due to an acute rib injury sustained during the opening ODI. While the change was enforced, the choice of Badoni as Sundar's replacement has not gone down well with a section of cricket followers.

Much of the criticism has been directed at India head coach Gautam Gambhir, with allegations of favouritism quickly surfacing. Skeptics argue that Badoni's selection is difficult to justify based purely on his List A record. In 22 innings, the 26-year-old has sco...