By Team India’s injury troubles have deepened as all-rounder Nitish Reddy has suffered a serious knee injury, putting his participation in the 4th Test against England in doubt. It may possibly rule him out for the remainder of the series. The news comes just days before the crucial fourth Test at Old Trafford, Manchester, scheduled to begin on July 23.
According to reports, Nitish Reddy injured his left knee during a mobility training session on Sunday (July 20), when the Indian team was forced to train indoors due to rain. While the exact cause is still unclear, sources indicate that the initial signs are not encouraging.
The 22-year-old Reddy was a decent performer in the third Test at Lord’s. He picked up three vital wickets in both innings and also contributed a valuable 43-run knock under pressure. His energy and balance as a seam-bowling all-rounder have made him a key component in India’s overseas setup.
With Reddy likely to miss not just the Manchester Test but also the final game of the series, India’s balance and bowling depth could take a hit. The team management may now turn back to Shardul Thakur, who played in the first Test but was replaced by Reddy in the next two.
Also Read: Akash Deep Doubtful for Manchester Test, Arshdeep Also Injured
Multiple Injuries Disrupt India’s Squad
The timing couldn’t be worse for India, as Reddy’s injury adds to an already long list of fitness concerns. Fast bowlers Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh have also been ruled out of the fourth Test. Akash, who starred in the second Test at Edgbaston, is nursing a back injury, while Arshdeep is recovering from a finger injury sustained during practice.
The Indian team is awaiting scan results to determine the full extent of Nitish’s injury. However, sources have told Cricbuzz that the young all-rounder is almost certainly out for the rest of the series.
What’s Next for India?
With two more Tests remaining in the high-stakes Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, the team management will have to quickly reshuffle their options. Whether they bring back Thakur or look for a fresh backup remains to be seen. The absence of a well-performing all-rounder like Nitish Reddy will certainly challenge India’s strategy going forward.
