Team India likely to hand debut cap to Nitish Kumar Reddy during Perth Test: Reports

Indian Express has reported that Nitish Kumar Reddy is likely to make his Test debut during the first game in Perth. The move comes with a view to make use of the bouncy conditions that India could experience. Team India want to make use of the youngster who can bowl well and contribute with the bat lower down the order. 

Gautam Gambhir ahead of the departure to Australia had spoken about Reddy’s inclusion in the team. Shardul Thakur was overlooked for the tour despite his terrific overseas performances. Thakur had played a match-winning role during India’s win in Brisbane during the last tour. 

Indian coach had said “The decision to pick Reddy ahead of Shardul is also about moving forward. I think we’ve picked the best squad who can do the job for us. We all know how incredibly talented Nitish Reddy is and if given an option, he will deliver for us.”

Huge moment in the offing for young all-rounder

It has been a whirlwind 2024 for Nitish Kumar Reddy ever since his amazing performance for Sunrisers Hyderabad. The youngster was one of the key players for the Pat Cummins-led side that reached the finals. This was followed by his international debut against Bangladesh in the T20I series. 

Till now Nitish Reddy has played 23 games for Andhra Pradesh and has scored 779 runs. His best of 159 is his only century in the First Class format where he has an average of 21. With the ball, the right-arm seamer has picked 56 wickets with two fifers and a best of 5/56/. 

Reddy is already in Australia and played for India A during their two-match series against Australia A. The 21-year-old scored 71 runs from 4 games and picked just a single wicket which is a huge cause of concern for Indian team management. Gautam Gambhir though has put his faith on the youngster over his abilities. 

Shardul Thakur while speaking to the IANS said “I haven't had any communication yet. But right now, I have just returned from surgery, so it's obvious that's the reason I am not on the team at the moment. However, my fitness is in great shape now, and since the Australia tour is a long one, opportunities can come anytime”