IND vs NZ: 3 reasons why India should play Nitish Kumar Reddy in ODIs

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been named in India’s squad for the ODI series against New Zealand.

India are pulling their socks up for the ODI series against New Zealand (IND vs NZ). The three-match campaign will commence on January 11 in Vadodara and conclude with the third encounter in Indore.

Shubman Gill, who missed the previous series against South Africa, has returned to grab the reins of the side in their first assignment of 2026. Notably, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been added to India’s squad for the ODI series against the Black Caps.

The seam all-rounder has impressed with his performance in test cricket and his short stint in the white-ball format so far. Since Hardik Pandya is absent from the squad, Reddy is likely to get opportunities as an all-rounder in the playing XI.

Below are the three key reasons why India should play Reddy in the ODI games against New Zealand.

3. Decent record in white-ball formats after debut

The batting all-rounder has played only a handful of games for India, but has shown decent form. In two ODI games last year, he got out for eight runs in one game but scored an unbeaten 19 runs in the other.

In four T20Is, he has piled up 90 runs in three innings, including a fifty, and grabbed three scalps at an economy of 7.88. Hence, like tests, Nitish has proved his mettle in the limited-overs formats too and deserves more opportunities.

2. Will strengthen batting & bowling depth

Reddy has been equally impressive with both bat and ball. Adding him to the playing XI will strengthen the batting depth and provide an extra bowling option.

Furthermore, since he bats lower down the order, he can also play the role of a finisher and replicate Hardik Pandya’s role. With his dual abilities, he will be a big asset for the team against the Black Caps.

1. Impressive form in Vijay Hazare Trophy

The 22-year-old recently played for Andhra in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26 and impressed with his performance. In five matches, he picked wickets in every game, including a two-wicket haul in the clash against Gujarat.

He also gave a valuable contribution with the bat in a few matches, including an unbeaten half-century against Railways. Therefore, he should get an opportunity to showcase his strength against the Black Caps at home following his recent success in the one-day tournament.

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