India begins preparations for the 2027 ODI World Cup, and the team management appears to have identified a strong backup option for Hardik Pandya in rising all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy.
Hardik remains one of India’s most valuable white-ball players thanks to his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. However, recurring fitness concerns and workload management have forced the selectors to look beyond the star all-rounder and build depth for the future. India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate, “It’s really good. I would still say the majority of those guys are bowling all-rounders. And when Hardik is fit, he obviously brings a different element because he’s such a strong batter, such a strong finisher. A sort of role scarcity - it is difficult to find a finisher who gives you overs as well,” ten Doeschate said.
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Ten Doeschate recently described Nitish as a “natural backup” to Hardik, highlighting the importance of having another pace-bowling all-rounder capable of balancing the side in major tournaments.
India is planning for the future
Hardik’s importance to the Indian team is difficult to overstate. He provides crucial overs with the ball and adds firepower to the middle order, allowing India greater flexibility in team selection. But given his history of injuries, the team management is keen to ensure there is adequate cover available before the next World Cup. Former India batter Suresh Raina had also stressed the need to develop a reliable alternative to Hardik well ahead of the global event.
When Virat Kohli scored his last Test century, Nitish Kumar Reddy was there.
— 𝚅𝚊𝚛𝚞𝚗⁸ (@varunx18) June 4, 2026
When Virat Kohli scored his last ODI half century, Nitish Kumar Reddy was there.
God is giving us signs, Nitish Reddy was lucky to witness his idol's last masterclass from the non striker end. pic.twitter.com/my3id3MAQ6
India’s selectors believe Nitish possesses many of the qualities required for the role. His ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game and his growing maturity at the international level have made him a player to watch.
Nitish continues to impress
The Andhra Pradesh all-rounder has steadily strengthened his case with a series of promising performances. Apart from making useful contributions with the bat, he has also shown the ability to deliver important breakthroughs with his medium pace.
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The coaching staff is particularly encouraged by his improvements in fitness and physical conditioning, which are essential for succeeding as a genuine all-rounder in international cricket.
While Hardik Pandya remains India’s first-choice all-rounder, Nitish Kumar Reddy is increasingly being viewed as the player best equipped to step in when required. With the 2027 World Cup on the horizon, his rise could prove crucial to India’s long-term plans.
