India should persist with Nitish, avoid temptation to chop and change: Kumble

Former India skipper Anil Kumble has thrown his weight behind Nitish Kumar Reddy, urging the team management to give the young all-rounder a sustained run in the Test side. Reddy impressed on the opening day of the third Test against England at Lord’s, finishing as India’s most successful bowler with two wickets in his second appearance of the ongoing tour.

Speaking on JioStar’s Match Centre Live, Kumble praised Reddy’s consistency and temperament. “I was surprised at how well Nitish Kumar Reddy bowled. He consistently hit the right areas. That short ball down the leg side was a gift, but otherwise, he was disciplined,” he said.

Kumble also recalled the 21-year-old’s performances in Australia, highlighting his century and solid spells with the ball. “What you need from someone like him is to break partnerships and give the fast bowlers a breather while maintaining control. He bowled nearly 14 overs in a spell — that shows fitness and control. He’s young, a capable batter, and a sharp fielder. India should persist with him and avoid the temptation to chop and change.”

Commenting on the conditions at Lord’s, where England reached 251/4 by stumps, Kumble noted the pitch’s challenge for batters. “It was evident right from the start that it was going to be a grind. The openers struggled against the new ball, and this was a wicket where you had to work hard for your runs,” he said. “India will probably reflect tonight and feel that one or two more wickets could have swung the match their way. As it stands, it’s evenly poised.”

Also Read: Shubman Gill breaks Edgbaston jinx as India script historic Test win

Former England batter Jonathan Trott echoed the view that conditions at Lord’s forced a departure from England’s trademark aggressive style. “It was an interesting day, starting from the toss. Ollie Pope came out attacking in typical ‘Bazball’ style, but quickly realised this wasn’t that kind of pitch. Credit to him for adjusting,” Trott said.

He also praised Joe Root’s composed innings. “Root looked fluent — the cover drive and the clip through mid-wicket off Siraj stood out. Once he settled, it looked like he could bat deep. I thought England might go after Jadeja in the final over, but sense prevailed.”

With the match finely balanced, the spotlight remains on India’s evolving Test lineup — and the growing calls for Nitish Kumar Reddy to be a permanent part of it.