Overview
- Aakash Chopra, Robin Uthappa and Manoj Tiwary called for India to persist with Nitish Kumar Reddy, saying he needs a longer run to develop.
- Their stance followed Ryan ten Doeschate’s post‑match comments questioning Reddy’s impact after the Rajkot ODI, where he made 20 and bowled two wicketless overs in a seven‑wicket loss to New Zealand.
- Chopra argued batting at No. 7 with few overs restricts Reddy’s influence, while Uthappa noted that becoming a complete all‑rounder requires time in international cricket.
- Tiwary urged Reddy to revisit basics after his Melbourne hundred and cautioned that public coaching remarks can affect senior players’ confidence.
- With the series decider due in Indore on January 18, discussions include grooming a backup for Hardik Pandya and hopes that injured Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar regain fitness ahead of T20 World Cup plans.