Young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is set to make his highly anticipated Test debut in the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia on November 22 at Perth’s Optus Stadium. The 21-year-old, who recently earned his maiden call-up, has impressed the team management with his potential, though his performance in the coming days will be closely monitored before a final decision is made.
Nitish is being groomed as India’s fourth seam-bowling option, a role previously held by Hardik Pandya and later Shardul Thakur. Known for his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, Nitish has played 23 First-Class matches, claiming 56 wickets and showcasing his batting ability at No. 7 or 8.
The conditions at the Optus Stadium, which traditionally favour seamers with its extra bounce and good carry, are expected to suit his style of play. However, his recent performances in two unofficial Tests against Australia A—where he managed only one wicket across four innings and modest scores of 0, 17, 16, and 38—highlight the need for further development.
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Despite these numbers, the management is backing Nitish due to the lack of other pace-bowling all-rounders in the current squad. The bowling attack is expected to feature Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj as the primary pacers, with either Akash Deep or Harshit Rana taking the third spot.
Harshit Rana has impressed with his bouncers during intra-squad simulations, but Akash’s experience and effectiveness with the new ball will also be factored into the final decision. Meanwhile, captain Rohit Sharma will miss the Perth Test to be with his wife Ritika Sajdeh as the couple recently welcomed their second child.
With Rohit unavailable, Jasprit Bumrah is set to lead the team. Adding to the team’s challenges, Shubman Gill is unlikely to play due to a thumb injury. To address this, the BCCI has asked Devdutt Padikkal, currently touring Australia with India A, to stay back as a replacement for Gill. Padikkal, who scored 38, 88, 26, and 1 in four innings against Australia A, is expected to bat at No. 3. His recent form has been promising, although his lack of Test experience could be a factor.
The absence of key players has created opportunities for fresh faces. Sources suggest Harshit Rana is on the brink of his Test debut, given his impressive performances in practice sessions. “Harshit was very impressive in the match simulation at Perth, especially with his bouncers. There’s a good chance he will make his India debut,” a source revealed.
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Devdutt Padikkal, meanwhile, is also gearing up for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, set to begin on November 23. His inclusion in the Test XI could prove pivotal for India as they adapt to the demanding Australian conditions while managing the absence of senior players. The stage is set for an intriguing clash, with young talents like Nitish and Harshit ready to make their mark on the international stage.
