Team India releases all-rounder from 1st South Africa Test: Details
What's the story
All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been released from India's squad for the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata. He will now join the India A team for a one-day series against South Africa A in Rajkot from November 13-19. The decision is part of a strategic move by the management, who are considering the current form and team needs, with Dhruv Jurel being a likely inclusion due to his outstanding performance.
Performance review
Limited opportunities for Reddy in recent matches
Despite India's plans to groom Reddy for future overseas tours, his chances in the recent matches were limited. He bowled just four overs on a green track during the first Test against West Indies in Ahmedabad and didn't bowl at all in Delhi. His batting stint at No. 5 was also brief, scoring 43 runs, which didn't help his case for retention much.
Team dynamics
Wicketkeeper-batter Jurel likely to replace Reddy
Reddy's release was expected as his place in the squad was most vulnerable, likely to be filled by Jurel. The wicketkeeper-batter is in top form, having scored two unbeaten centuries against South Africa A. With Rishabh Pant fit again after a foot injury sustained in England, India's selection clarity for the series opener has improved further.
Coach's insight
Jurel's inclusion almost certain, says Ryan ten Doeschate
India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has all but confirmed Jurel's inclusion in the starting XI for the upcoming Test. "I don't think you can leave him [Jurel] out for this Test, is the short answer," he said at a press conference. "Given the way Dhruv's gone in the last six months, scoring two hundreds in Bangalore last week, he's certain to play this week," the Indian coach stated.
Strategy explanation
Team strategy takes precedence over individual development, says ten Doeschate
Ten Doeschate clarified India's position on Reddy, saying they see him as a player who is learning and developing. However, he also stressed that strategy comes first in picking the team for a match. "If you can accommodate giving guys a chance for development, that comes in," he said. This week, due to the importance of the series and expected conditions, Reddy might miss out on this Test.
Information
A look at Reddy's Test and First-Class stats
Reddy has featured in 9 Test matches for India, scoring 386 runs at 29.69. He owns a solitary hundred. With the ball, he has picked a total of 8 wickets at 39.62. As per ESPNcricinfo, he has hammered 1,317 runs in First-Class cricket alongside taking 66 scalps.