“I want to develop a bowling all-rounder” Ryan ten Doeschate confirms Nitish Reddy likely to feature in 2nd IND vs WI Test

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate confirmed that India were unlikely to change their combination in the IND vs WI 2nd Test. The hosts clinched an innings victory in Ahmedabad and held practice in Delhi for the final game of the series. The Arun Jaitley Stadium has traditionally favoured spin putting Nitish Kumar Reddy’s place in the XI at risk.

Want to develop a seam-bowling all-rounder: Ryan ten Doeschate

Despite the dry surface on offer at the Kotla, Nitish Kumar Reddy is expected to keep his place in the side. Reddy featured in Ahmedabad but bowled only 4 overs in the first innings. He did not get to bat either after being slotted at No.8. Given the lack of action, Doeschate believes Delhi is a good opportunity for the young all-rounder to lay down his marker.

“I’d say we’re unlikely to change the combination. One of the objectives, one of the sort of medium-term objectives, is to develop a seam-bowling all-rounder for India. It’s very important when we go away on tours that we have that position covered. We didn’t get a very good look at Nitish last week. So, I think it’s actually a very good opportunity to give Nitish another go and not alter the balance of the team,” Doeschate said in a press conference on Wednesday.

India have big hopes from Nitish Reddy. The Andhra star is a rare breed of cricketing talent in India – a seam bowling all-rounder. While it is early days, Reddy has already shown promise with his century at the MCG. However, injuries have also been a constant in his development.

“I think a series like this where you look at the combinations, it’s more important to look ahead and see how we can fit him in to make sure that he does get game time and the chance to develop his bowling. We think he’s a quality all-rounder,” Doeschate added.