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Nitish Kumar Reddy Ruled Out of England Series Due to Major Knee Injury
Another Major Blow to Team India Ahead of Manchester Test
Team India has been dealt another significant injury blow ahead of the fourth Test in the ongoing England series. Promising young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been officially ruled out of the final two Tests of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy due to a serious left knee injury. The setback was confirmed by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Monday, July 21.
The injury comes as a disappointment for both the player and the team, especially after Reddy’s eye-catching performance during the tense third Test at Lord’s. With his all-round abilities and consistent contributions, Reddy had become a key player in India’s overseas setup.
Injury Confirmed After Medical Scans
When and How Did the Injury Occur?
The 22-year-old all-rounder reportedly picked up the injury during a mobility training session, although the specific details remain unclear. Following the injury, he underwent medical scans to assess the severity, and it was soon confirmed that his left knee was significantly damaged, making him unavailable for the remainder of the tour.
According to Cricbuzz, which first reported the possibility of the injury, there were already serious doubts about his participation. The confirmation by the BCCI only underlined the unfortunate timing of the incident, especially considering the high-stakes nature of the upcoming matches.
On Sunday, during a team visit to Old Trafford, Nitish was notably absent, sparking speculation. The only other player missing was KL Rahul, who, according to team sources, is not dealing with any fitness concerns.
Akash Deep and Arshdeep Singh Also Unavailable
Adding to the injury woes, pacer Akash Deep, who was instrumental in India’s victory in the second Test at Edgbaston, is also likely to miss the fourth Test. Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh, the left-arm pacer, has been officially ruled out of the Manchester Test due to his own injury troubles.
These absences leave the Indian pace attack significantly depleted, putting added pressure on the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur.
Possible Replacements and Strategic Adjustments
Will Shardul Thakur Return to the XI?
With Nitish ruled out, India may consider recalling Shardul Thakur, who played in the series opener at Leeds before Nitish took over the all-rounder’s spot. Thakur offers a similar skillset—medium pace bowling and lower-order batting—and his experience in English conditions might make him a suitable replacement.
Team management might also explore other domestic all-rounders or fast bowlers as backups, but given the short turnaround before the fourth Test, experience and familiarity with English pitches could be prioritized.
What This Means for India’s Series Hopes
Losing key contributors like Nitish and Akash Deep puts India in a difficult position going into the final leg of the tour. With the series still very much in the balance, each Test holds immense importance. Nitish’s injury not only affects the balance of the playing XI but also impacts the squad’s flexibility in changing conditions.
Despite the setbacks, India’s bench strength remains promising, and the return of players like Shardul Thakur could stabilize the team. The upcoming Test at Old Trafford from July 23 to 27 will now test India’s adaptability and resilience.
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Official Statement from BCCI
On July 21, the BCCI released an official statement confirming the injury:
“Nitish Kumar Reddy has sustained an injury to his left knee during a training session. After consultation with the medical team, it has been decided that he will return to India for further management and rehabilitation.”
A Setback, But Not the End
While the injury to Nitish Reddy is a severe blow to the Indian team’s ambitions in this series, it also provides an opportunity for others to step up. His performances have left a lasting impression, and fans can expect to see him back stronger in future assignments, possibly later this year.
India’s focus now shifts to maintaining momentum despite the growing injury list as the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy heads towards its climax.
🌐 Read the original injury update on Cricbuzz.
