Thu Oct 23 06:40:00 UTC 2025: Summary:
With Hardik Pandya sidelined, India’s batting coach Sitanshu Kotak highlights the team’s focus on developing young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy during the ongoing ODI series against Australia. Kotak acknowledged Pandya’s absence as a loss but emphasized the opportunity it presents for Reddy to gain experience and potentially fill the all-rounder role in the future. The second ODI is set to take place in Adelaide, with emphasis on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
News Article:
India Grooming Young All-Rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy Amidst Pandya’s Absence
Adelaide, Australia – October 22 (ANI): The Indian cricket team is looking to the future, using the current ODI series against Australia to develop promising all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. With star all-rounder Hardik Pandya currently unavailable, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has acknowledged the void but is focusing on the opportunity it provides for Reddy to gain valuable experience at the international level.
“Someone like Hardik Pandya is always a big loss,” Kotak admitted in a pre-match press conference ahead of the second ODI in Adelaide. “But if we look at the positive side, Nitish Kumar Reddy is getting some game time, and we’re trying to groom him.”
Kotak emphasized the importance of having a reliable all-rounder in the team. “Every team needs an all-rounder, and we’re trying to develop him in that role. So it’s good preparation in that way.”
Reddy received his first ODI cap in the series opener, adding to his previous Test debut last year. The team clearly sees potential in the young player, who has been given the chance to prove his worth in Pandya’s absence.
Pandya’s absence highlights his significance to the Indian team. With 1,904 runs and 91 wickets in 94 ODIs, he is one of India’s most valuable limited-overs all-rounders.
The second ODI against Australia will take place on Thursday, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in focus, as India looks to level the series. However, beyond the immediate result, the focus on developing Reddy provides a glimpse into India’s long-term planning.
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