Hardik Pandya’s extended absence from international cricket has troubled Ajinkya Rahane, who says it is still unclear when the all-rounder would return. Hardik will not play in the upcoming white-ball matches against New Zealand or India because to a recent shin injury. He has been absent since the T20 World Cup final in March 2026. Nitish Kumar Reddy will play as a seam-bowling all-rounder in the West Indies one-day international series against Australia, which begins on September 27.

Prior to the West Indies series, Ajinkya Rahane acknowledged the difficulty of replacing an all-rounder like Hardik Pandya.

The seasoned batter realised the difficulties of the situation as well as the opportunity it presents to a brilliant young player like Reddy.

Reddy’s opportunity to demonstrate his versatility.

Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was originally on the Asian Games 2026 list, has been called up to the West Indies ODI squad. The BCCI selection committee elevated Reddy to the white-ball team against the West Indies before removing him from the Asian Games contingent at the last minute. Shubman Gill will captain the squad throughout the three-match series, with KL Rahul serving as vice-captain.

Reasons not to compare Reddy with Hardik

Reddy’s recent performances have boosted his chances of making the ODI squad. During the T20I series against Afghanistan, the all-rounder impressed with the ball, taking six wickets in three games. His recovery from injuries and outstanding bowling performance in that series demonstrated that he was ready for the upcoming match against the West Indies.

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Ajinkya Rahane stated that, while Reddy and Hardik each bring unique abilities to the squad, it is inappropriate to make direct analogies between them. Reddy’s promotion reflects the selection committee’s confidence in his ability to contribute to the ODI format’s batting and bowling disciplines.

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