In a strong endorsement of young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, former India captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble has urged Indian cricket’s think tank—Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir—to back the rising star as a crucial piece in the national side’s future plans. Kumble highlighted Reddy’s ability to deliver breakthroughs and relieve pressure from the fast bowling unit, a trait that was on full display during the ongoing Test at Lord’s.
Speaking about India’s need for a dependable all-round option, Kumble stated, “What India needs from someone like Reddy is to break partnerships and give the fast bowlers a breather.” The remarks came after Reddy’s impactful spell on Day 1 of the Lord’s Test, where he was handed the new ball for the first time in the series.
Reddy made an instant impact. Introduced in the 14th over by stand-in captain Shubman Gill, the young pacer struck twice in his very first over—dismissing both English openers Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley. His first wicket came when he trapped Duckett down the leg side with a short delivery that the batter failed to control. The very next delivery saw Ollie Pope edge to first slip, only for Gill to put down the catch.
Unfazed, Reddy continued his spell and soon got Crawley to nick a swinging delivery straight to Rishabh Pant behind the stumps.
Kumble’s advice also reflects a broader call for stability in selection, especially from leadership figures like Gill and mentor Gautam Gambhir, who are expected to shape India’s next-generation core. “Persist with players like Reddy,” Kumble emphasized, “because these are the match-winners who can turn games when conditions are tough.”
With the Indian team undergoing a generational shift, especially in the longer format, performances like Reddy’s underline the importance of grooming versatile cricketers who can contribute across departments.
Kumble’s faith in Reddy may well influence the team management’s direction, particularly if the youngster continues to produce such impactful performances on the big stage.
As India looks ahead to future challenges, voices like Kumble’s add crucial weight to selection conversations—and for Nitish Kumar Reddy, the path to a consistent spot in the Test squad may now have received its biggest boost yet.
