India's Selection Dilemma: Nitish Reddy vs. Shardul Thakur for Upcoming Tests

India's Challenge in Finalizing the Playing XI

As India prepares for the crucial Test series in England, the team faces a significant challenge in determining its playing lineup. The competition for a spot in the starting eleven for the first Test at Headingley on June 20 is particularly fierce between Nitish Reddy and Shardul Thakur.

Both players were included in the India A squad for two unofficial Tests against the England Lions, where they delivered mixed performances. Nitish primarily played as a batting all-rounder, a role he excelled in during his debut Test series against Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he participated in all five matches.

However, upon facing the English conditions, Nitish found it challenging to adapt to the bounce and seam movement. On the relatively easy pitch at Canterbury, he attempted to cut the ball too early and aggressively in his first innings.

In his second innings, he managed to score a half-century on the fourth day, but by then, the match's outcome was already determined, and part-time bowlers were on the field.

Nitish's primary issue has been dealing with seam movement. In Northampton, he struggled against Tom Haines, a part-time medium-pacer. His aggressive batting style, which worked well in Australia, faced hurdles in England due to the challenging conditions, including overcast skies and a grassy pitch.

In contrast, Shardul Thakur brings more experience to the table, having played four of his 11 Tests in England. While his pace is similar to Nitish's, Shardul has been more effective in generating seam movement, consistently troubling the England Lions' batters. In Canterbury, he bowled 28 overs, nearly double the amount bowled by Nitish, and took two wickets.

During the 2021 series in England, Shardul played a crucial role in India's success, serving as the fifth bowling option and contributing with the bat. As the series approaches, both Nitish and Shardul must refine their skills to secure their places in the team.