Thu Nov 21 20:09:43 UTC 2024: ## Young All-Rounder Nitish Reddy Poised for Test Debut Against Australia

**Perth, Australia** – India’s preparations for the opening Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against Australia have been hampered by injuries, creating an opportunity for young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. With several senior players sidelined, including Shubman Gill and Mohammed Shami, Reddy is strongly tipped to make his Test debut in Perth.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri and former captain Sourav Ganguly have both publicly endorsed Reddy’s inclusion. Shastri urged Reddy to emulate Shardul Thakur’s impactful all-round performance from India’s 2020-21 series win, highlighting the need for a fourth seamer who can contribute both with bat and ball. Ganguly emphasized that Reddy’s batting and bowling skills are particularly valuable in Perth’s and Brisbane’s conditions, which are not conducive to two specialist spinners.

Reddy, who boasts impressive domestic figures (779 runs and 56 wickets in 23 first-class matches) and a successful IPL 2024 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, has already earned a T20I cap for India. India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, also hinted at Reddy’s debut, praising his ability to support the pace attack. While Reddy’s recent performances in Australia A were modest, his acclimatization to Australian conditions during the India A tour is considered a positive.

The Perth Test presents a significant opportunity for Reddy to showcase his all-round abilities on the international stage. His potential inclusion reflects India’s strategic need for a versatile player to balance the team amidst injuries and challenging conditions.

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