Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has suggested that Arshdeep Singh should replace the injured Washington Sundar in the Indian team for the second ODI against New Zealand, scheduled for January 18 in Raipur, but later changed to January 14 in Rajkot due to a prior commitment. Sundar suffered a rib injury during the first ODI in Hyderabad on January 11 and has been ruled out of the series.
Kaif’s comments came during a discussion on his YouTube channel, where he stated that while Ayush Badoni, who received his maiden call-up, could be considered as a like-for-like replacement for Sundar, he would prefer the youngster to observe from the bench and learn from the experience of playing at the international level. However, Kaif noted that the team management’s strategy of requiring batting depth down to number eight could work against Arshdeep Singh.
Kaif explained that having four fast bowlers and batting up to number seven could be a viable option on a good pitch. He also praised India’s bowling performance in the first ODI, where fast bowlers took most of the wickets. Kaif pointed out that Jadeja and Kuldeep are already part of the team as spinners, and the main concern for the team is to have batting depth up to number eight.
India won the first ODI by four wickets, with Virat Kohli earning the Player of the Match award for his 93-run innings. Kaif also praised India pacer Harshit Rana, who returned figures of 2/65 in 10 overs and contributed 29 runs with the bat in the first ODI. Kaif noted that Rana’s pace has improved, and he is bowling in the right areas with confidence.
The 24-year-old Rana has played 12 ODIs for India, taking 22 wickets at an average of 26.18. Kaif observed that Rana’s bowling has gained pace, and he is now delivering at around 135-138 km/h, with noticeable swing and the ability to hit the right areas. Kaif’s comments highlight the team’s search for the right balance and strategy as they head into the second ODI against New Zealand.
