Nitish Kumar Reddy has a key opportunity to establish himself in India’s ODI squad as the team focuses its focus to 50-over cricket ahead of the 2027 World Cup. With Hardik Pandya still working his way back to full fitness, Nitish Kumar could get an extended run in the format during the forthcoming West Indies series, which starts on September 27 at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram.
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has voiced faith in the youthful allrounder’s ability to play an important role in the squad.
The coaching team is impressed with Nitish Kumar recent T20 International efforts. He took three wickets in the second and third T20Is against Afghanistan, going 3 for 24 in Delhi and 3 for 25 in the following match. Morkel has encouraged the all-rounder to improve his talents in all three disciplines during this critical moment.
Focusing on fundamentals and consistency.
Nitish Kumar journey to consistent ODI cricket has been hampered by injuries.
He was ruled out of England’s visit in June 2026 owing to a left quadriceps injury received during India’s one-day international series against Afghanistan. The injury also caused him to miss successive T20I matches against Ireland and England. Most recently, Reddy was dropped from India’s Asian Games roster on September 16, only days before the West Indies series began.
Morkel emphasised the need of consistency and understanding the fundamentals as Nitish Kumar seeks to establish himself in the ODI format. The coaching staff sees this time as critical for the all-rounder to improve his game and prove his worth at the top level.
Setting standards for World Cup preparation.
India’s schedule over the next few months will afford numerous opportunities for Nitish Kumar and other squad members to press their claims for World Cup selection. After the three ODIs against the West Indies, India will play five ODIs in New Zealand and three at home against Sri Lanka to finish the year before facing Zimbabwe in three ODIs in early 2027.
Morkel emphasised that players must comprehend the standard required of them during this critical era. The coaching team hopes to see aggressive intent and a readiness to learn from difficult situations as India prepares for the World Cup.
Also Read : Jos Buttler to Miss Oval Decider, Dan Lawrence Called Up
India’s medical and coaching departments are closely monitoring player workload to ensure that squad members are fit and ready for World Cup selection. Hardik Pandya, Harshit Rana, and other players continue to sit out as they recover from injuries.
