Providing reddy

Nitish Kumar Reddy: India captain Shubman Gill emphasised the importance of grooming seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy in home conditions, stating that it is better to give him game time at home and use that as preparation for overseas tours.

Providing Reddy with more opportunities to contribute in an all-round role in the second Test, starting at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Friday, remains a priority for India. He bowled only four overs in the first innings of the first Test in Ahmedabad and did not get another chance to bowl or even bat, as India declared their innings at 448/5.

While the Indian team management recognises that Reddy’s long-term value lies in overseas conditions favourable to pace, they are also clear that his development must commence with consistent red-ball play at home and maintaining his rhythm before India’s upcoming overseas tours of Sri Lanka and New Zealand in 2026.