With India suffering from selection dilemmas for the Boxing Day test of the Border Gavaskar trophy 2024-25, Sunil Gavaskar has warned about the idea of dropping Nitish Reddy for the Melbourne Test.
After the Gabba test ended in a draw, it triggered a wave of planned and speculative changes with the legendary cricketer adding importance to the decisions the Indian team management must make.
The significant shift came with Ashwin’s retirement announcement immediately after the third test at Gabba in Brisbane.
Ashwin’s absence has left a void in the squad and Tanush Kotian has been brought in as replacement.
As Australia named their playing 11 for the fourth test, all have turned eyes on India’s playing Xl. One of the biggest debates centres around Nitish Reddy’s place in Xl.
While some believe Washington Sundar should replace Reddy to provide India with an additional spinning option, Gavaskar strong oppose the idea.
“They can’t drop Nitish Kumar Reddy. He is the fourth seamer. I can’t see India going in with just two pacers and Nitish. For me, it is pretty much this XI that plays in Melbourne,” said Gavaskar.
Gavaskar concluded by saying, “Unlikely that Harshit will replace Akash Deep. Why would you drop a man who has saved your team from follow-on?”
The legendary batter feels it unlikely that Harshit Rana will replace Akash Deep especially after the pacer played a key role in the follow on.
Meanwhile, Indian team also considers changing to the top order for the upcoming Boxing Day test at the MCG. Rohit Sharma might return to open, and KL Rahul could move to No. 3 with Shubman Gill facing, have been struggling with bat down under.
The third match of the BGT ended in draw after the rain spoiled the game on day 05 and both sides have one victory each. The fourth match of the Australia-India tests will be played beginning on December 26 at Melbourne Cricket Ground.
