Team India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel offered a positive fitness update on Nitish Kumar Reddy ahead of the fourth T20I against Australia in Queensland. The all-rounder had missed the first three T20Is after suffering a left quadriceps injury during the second ODI in Adelaide.
Morkel confirmed that Reddy has resumed full practice, participating in batting, bowling, and fielding drills. However, his inclusion in the playing XI will depend on the outcome of a final medical evaluation.
“Yes, he did all his work that was needed or expected of him today, fielding, batting, bowling, and he ticked all of that. So we will find out now, after the assessment, where he is at,” Morkel told reporters.
Earlier, the BCCI had revealed that Reddy’s recovery slowed due to neck spasms while he was recuperating from his thigh injury.
“Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out for the first three T20Is. The all-rounder, who was recovering from his left quadriceps injury sustained during the second ODI in Adelaide, complained of neck spasms, which has impacted his recovery and mobility. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress,” the BCCI said in a post on X.
India made three changes for the third T20I, which proved effective as the team bounced back to level the series 1-1. If Reddy regains full fitness, he could strengthen India’s middle order and bowling depth ahead of the crucial fourth T20I.
“Need to Have Options Available”: Morkel
Morkel underlined the importance of testing different combinations before major tournaments. He noted that experimenting with players in new roles helps the team handle varied match situations confidently.
“You need to have options available. I think every team, if you look across the world, is playing around with options,” Morkel said, emphasizing flexibility in team dynamics.
“…I think in this game you need to be adaptable. You need to know where certain players can give you options in different roles. And if you are not going to try those roles and see how they handle the pressure in those situations, you are never going to know,” he added.
India vs Australia 4th T20I: Decisive Battle Ahead
The fourth T20I between India and Australia will take place on November 6 at Carrara Oval, Queensland. With the series tied 1-1 after a rain-hit opener in Canberra, both teams will look to gain the upper hand. Fans await to see if Nitish Kumar Reddy makes a timely return to add balance and versatility to Team India’s lineup.
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