Hardik Pandya's recurring fitness issues have raised concerns about his long-term availability in the format. His frequent injuries have affected India's team balance in the past, including during major tournaments. Nitish Kumar Reddy has emerged as a strong contender for a regular all-rounder's role in the side.
"You plan, you look at your options like we do in batting and bowling. Same as with the all-rounders. Unfortunately, Hardik is missing this series. He picked up a niggle, quite a niggle, very close to joining camp," he said in the press conference.
Nitish has made steady progress with both bat and ball over the past two years. His development was evident during IPL 2026, where he delivered consistent performances and even took on new-ball responsibilities for his team.
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"When the players get the opportunity to work and develop their own game, look at areas where they can improve. And Nitish did that. It was from a technical point of view to get him a little bit better at the crease, more balanced, so the energy flows down the wicket," Morkel said.
Nitish has also increased his bowling pace after making those technical adjustments. His all-round skills have strengthened his case as a long-term option for India heading into future ICC events.
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His opportunities in limited-overs cricket have been restricted by Hardik Pandya's presence and India's preference for spin-bowling all-rounders such as Axar Patel in home conditions.
Hardik Pandya's injury during the 2023 World Cup forced India to alter its balance, although Mohammed Shami's outstanding performances helped the team recover. South African conditions are expected to favor pace-bowling all-rounders during the next World Cup.
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