Anil Kumble Backs Nitish Kumar Reddy; Urges India To Stay Consistent With Team Selection

Former India captain Anil Kumble praised Nitish Kumar Reddy for his impactful performance on Day 1 of the Lord’s Test, where the young all-rounder made a strong case for himself by removing both English openers in his very first over.

India handed Reddy the new ball for the first time in the series, with Shubman Gill introducing him in the 14th over.

Reddy struck immediately, dismissing Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley in the same over. He trapped Duckett down the leg side with a short delivery and followed it up with a perfect outswinger that Crawley edged to wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant.

Anil Kumble impressed by Reddy’s discipline and fitness

Kumble, speaking on JioHotstar, said, “I was surprised at how well Nitish Kumar Reddy bowled. He consistently hit the right areas. His delivery to Zak Crawley was a beauty. That short ball to Duckett may have been a gift, but overall, he was very disciplined.”

The former spinner also highlighted Reddy’s endurance.

“He bowled nearly 14 overs in a spell — that shows fitness and control. He’s young, a capable batter with a century under his belt, and a sharp fielder. India should persist with him and avoid the temptation to chop and change,” Kumble added.

Reflecting on Reddy’s earlier performances, Kumble recalled, “He did quite well in Australia — scored a hundred and bowled decently, even if he didn’t take many wickets. What you need from someone like him is to break partnerships and give the frontline fast bowlers a breather while maintaining control.”

India’s bowling effort keeps the match evenly poised

Kumble also analysed India’s overall bowling performance, stating that the team hit good areas consistently.

“It was a tough surface for batters from the start. The openers struggled to score, and it was clear runs had to be earned. The Indian bowlers were very disciplined, which is why they managed to restrict England to 251,” he said.

However, Kumble believed India missed an opportunity after Ravindra Jadeja’s breakthrough. “I was surprised Jadeja didn’t continue bowling to Ben Stokes and switched ends instead. That small tactical change might have allowed England to settle again.”

Joe Root led England’s resistance with a composed innings, ending Day 1 unbeaten on 99. England closed the day at 251/4 after 83 overs, setting up a closely contested Day 2.

Kumble outlines day 2 game plan for India

Looking ahead, Kumble stressed the importance of the new ball.

“India should aim to restrict England to under 300 — ideally under 320. That would be a solid result. The first hour is crucial. If India picks up a couple of quick wickets, the momentum swings in their favour. But if England gets off to a steady start, India will have to fight hard.”

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