Is Nitish Kumar Reddy Out of India’s Squad for the First Test Against South Africa?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Get the latest updates on Nitish Kumar Reddy's exclusion from India's Test squad and his upcoming role in the One-day series against South Africa A. As preparations intensify for the crucial matches ahead, discover how this decision impacts the team's dynamics and strategy.
Key Takeaways
- Nitish Kumar Reddy released from India's Test squad for first Test.
- He will join India A for One-day series against South Africa A.
- The first Test starts at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
- Rishabh Pant returns after injury.
- India A series runs from November 13 to 19.
Mumbai, Nov 12 (NationPress) All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been released from India’s squad for the first Test against South Africa, which is set to commence at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Friday. This decision was confirmed by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia, who stated that Reddy will join the India A team for their upcoming One-day series against South Africa A in Rajkot.
The three-match series between India A and South Africa A will take place at the Niranjan Shah Stadium from November 13 to 19, with matches scheduled on Thursday, Sunday, and Wednesday.
Reddy, known for his skills as a seam-bowling all-rounder, is expected to rejoin the senior Test squad for the second Test after the conclusion of the ‘A’ series, as confirmed by Saikia. “Reddy will return to the squad for the second Test post the conclusion of the ‘A’ series,” he mentioned.
The team management opted to release him to ensure he acquires crucial match experience in competitive conditions before the limited-overs segment of the South Africa tour.
Reddy had a lackluster performance during India’s 2–0 Test series victory in the West Indies, bowling just four overs in the opening Test and failing to take any wickets. With the bat, he scored 43 runs in one innings. In the subsequent ODI series in Australia, his contributions were 19 not out and 8 in two appearances.
After recently finishing the two-match unofficial Test series 1–1 against South Africa A in Bengaluru, the visiting team is now gearing up for the One-day leg in Rajkot, which will serve as further preparation for the upcoming India–South Africa ODI series, starting with the one-dayer in Ranchi on November 30.
In other news, Rishabh Pant makes his return to the Indian squad after recovering from a foot injury sustained during the England series. The opening Test lineup will feature both Pant and Dhruv Jurel, with Shubman Gill continuing as captain and Pant as vice-captain.
India’s updated squad for the first Test includes:
Shubman Gill (C), Rishabh Pant (WK) (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Akash Deep.
India A’s updated squad for the One-day series:
Tilak Varma (C), Ruturaj Gaikwad (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, Ishan Kishan (WK), Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Vipraj Nigam, Manav Suthar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Khaleel Ahmed, Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy.
Point of View
The release of Nitish Kumar Reddy from the Test squad is a strategic move by the BCCI aimed at ensuring the player gains essential match experience. This decision reflects the board's commitment to nurturing talent while maintaining a competitive edge in international cricket. As India gears up for a crucial series, such decisions are vital for long-term success.
NationPress
13/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Nitish Kumar Reddy released from the squad?
Nitish Kumar Reddy was released to gain valuable match time in competitive conditions before the limited-overs segment of the South Africa tour.
When does the first Test against South Africa begin?
The first Test against South Africa is set to begin on Friday at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.
Who will replace Reddy in the Test squad?
While no direct replacement for Reddy has been mentioned, he is expected to return for the second Test after the completion of the A series.
What is the schedule for the India A vs South Africa A series?
The India A vs South Africa A series will take place from November 13 to 19 at the Niranjan Shah Stadium.
Who are the key players in India's updated Test squad?
Key players include Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja, among others.
