Ayush Badoni wants to convert half-centuries into big scores as Delhi captain
Badoni aims to convert starts into big scores and set an example for Delhi's young batting unit after the seven-time champions missed the knockouts for eight straight seasons.
Delhi captain Ayush Badoni said he wants to put a price on his wicket and convert half-centuries into substantial scores after being named to lead the side in the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy. The 26-year-old has scored four centuries and 10 half-centuries in 38 first-class innings at an average of 54.
Badoni said he has occasionally thrown his wicket away with flamboyant shots and now wants to make bowlers earn his dismissal. Delhi have not reached the knockout stages since the 2017-18 season and finished second-last in their group last year after failing to win a match.
The side open their campaign against Bengal in Kalyani on October 11. Badoni acknowledged that injuries have affected the bowling attack but expressed hope that the unit has evolved and will take more wickets this season.
CricHubb Take
Tasking a middle-order batter with resurrecting a side that has not won a match in two years places the onus on personal output to drive collective improvement.