India’s cricket team has been hit with significant injury news as fast-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and pacer Arshdeep Singh have both been ruled out of crucial matches in the ongoing Test series against England.
Nitish Kumar Reddy Ruled Out of Series
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed on Monday that Nitish Kumar Reddy will not take any further part in the Anderson-Tendulkar series. He has been forced to withdraw due to a left knee injury.
Reddy had reported a niggle to the team physios during a gym session on Sunday morning. Subsequent scans revealed damage to his ligament, necessitating his return home for recovery. This unfortunate development puts his entire tour in jeopardy.
Arshdeep Singh to Miss Manchester Test
Adding to India’s woes, talented pacer Arshdeep Singh will also be unavailable for the fourth Test match, set to be played in Manchester. Arshdeep sustained an impact injury to his left thumb while bowling in the nets during a training session in Beckenham.
The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring Arshdeep’s progress, hoping for a swift recovery. His absence is a considerable blow to the team’s bowling attack for the upcoming vital encounter.
Mounting Injury Concerns for India
These latest injuries contribute to a growing list of casualties for the Indian squad, severely impacting their chances of squaring the series. India currently trails England 2-1 in the five-match Test series, making the upcoming fixtures must-win encounters.
Already, Birmingham hero Akash Deep is sidelined due to a groin niggle, further depleting the team’s fast-bowling options. The increasing number of injuries poses a significant challenge for India as they head into the decisive phase of the series.
New Addition to the Squad
In response to Arshdeep Singh’s injury, the BCCI has announced a replacement. Anshul Kamboj has been added to the squad and has already joined the team in Manchester.
Kamboj’s inclusion aims to provide much-needed depth and fresh options to the Indian bowling unit, as they look to overcome these setbacks and perform strongly against a formidable English side.
Series Overview
The series has been tightly contested so far. England took a crucial 2-1 lead after clinching a hard-fought 22-run victory over India in the third Test at Lord’s.
Earlier in the series, England had won the opening Test at Headingley by five wickets. India, however, bounced back with a spirited performance led by Shubman Gill at Edgbaston, securing their first win against the hosts.
Following the Manchester Test, both teams will travel back to London for the fifth and final Test of the series, which will be played at The Oval.
- Nitish Kumar Reddy ruled out of the series due to a left knee injury.
- Arshdeep Singh to miss the fourth Test in Manchester with a left thumb injury.
- Anshul Kamboj has joined the Indian squad as Arshdeep’s replacement.
- India currently trails England 2-1 in the five-match Test series.
These injury setbacks present a tough challenge for India, but the team will be aiming to regroup and deliver a strong performance to keep their series hopes alive.
