India bowling coach Morne Morkel said the team plans to use the ODI series against Afghanistan to assess the depth of its squad Fresh blow from Hardik Pandya’s injury. The absence of the experienced all-rounder could provide a valuable opportunity for Nitish Kumar Reddy to establish himself in the ODI setup.
Hardik Pandya’s recurring fitness problems have raised concerns over his long-term availability in the format. His frequent injuries have affected India’s team balance in the past, including in major tournaments. Nitish Kumar Reddy has emerged as a strong contender for the regular all-rounder’s role in the team.
It’s another chance for Nitish Kumar Reddy – Morne Morkel on Hardik Pandya’s absence
Morne Morkel said that India always prepares many options for every situation, including the role of all-rounder. The bowling coach revealed that Hardik Pandya had suffered an injury before joining the team.
“You plan, you look at your options like we do in batting and bowling. It’s the same with all-rounders. Unfortunately, Hardik is going to miss this series. He has got a serious injury very close to joining the camp,” he said in the press conference.
When Morkel was asked what India planned for Hardik in life ahead, he said, “But then, it is another chance for Nitish Kumar Reddy. He has been playing brilliantly in the last two years.”
Nitish has made steady progress with both bat and ball in the last two years. His development was evident during IPL 2026, where he performed consistently and even took on new-ball responsibilities for his team.
We are excited to see him on the international stage – Morne Morkel on Nitish Kumar Reddy
Morne Morkel said that Nitish Kumar Reddy has made significant improvements. He said that adjustments to his technique have helped him become more balanced at the crease, allowing him to perform more effectively with both bat and ball.
Morkel said, “When players get a chance to work and develop their game, look at the areas where they can improve. And Nitish did that. It was from a technical point of view to make him a little better, more balanced at the crease, so that the energy flows down the wicket.”
“There has been improvement in both departments. So, yes, we’re excited to get his chance and see how he presents it on the international stage. And, yes, it’s always nice to have that extra help,” he said.
After making technical adjustments, Nitish has also increased his bowling speed. His all-round skills have strengthened his case as a long-term option for India in future ICC events.
Afghanistan ODI provides big World Cup opportunity to Nitish Kumar Reddy
Nitish Kumar Reddy has played only eight white-ball matches for India so far, which includes four ODIs and four T20Is. Despite his limited white-ball experience, Nitish has already played 10 Tests and scored a memorable Test century at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
His opportunities in limited overs cricket have been limited due to the presence of Hardik Pandya and India’s preference for spin-bowling all-rounders like Axar Patel in home conditions.
Keeping in view the 2027 World Cup, the ODI series against Afghanistan could be important for Nitish. Hardik will be 34 by then and India are aware of the risks that come with relying too much on a seam-bowling all-rounder.
Hardik Pandya’s injury during the 2023 World Cup forced India to change their balance, although Mohammed Shami’s excellent performance helped the team recover. It is expected that the conditions in South Africa will be favorable for fast bowling all-rounders during the next World Cup.