Nitish Kumar Reddy RULED OUT of 3rd unofficial Test against New Zealand A; Know why
Nitish Kumar Reddy was released from India ODI squad to feature in third NZ-A vs IND-A Test.
Nitish Kumar Reddy has been ruled out of the third and final unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A due to a viral fever. The all-rounder was supposed to join India A after the first ODI against New Zealand to get red-ball match practice ahead of the upcoming two-match Test series.
India are currently touring New Zealand for five ODIs and two Test matches. With the Test series starting on November 19, the team management has planned extra match practice for some players through the unofficial games between the two A teams.
Nitish Kumar Reddy was also part of this plan. The BCCI had confirmed that he would leave the ODI squad after the opening match on November 4 and join India A for the final four-day game.
However, his illness has changed those plans, and India A played the final match without the all-rounder.
Nitish Kumar Reddy misses final Unofficial Test due to viral fever
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The third unofficial Test was an important opportunity for Reddy to get some time in the middle and prepare for the longer format. Playing in New Zealand conditions would also have helped him get ready for the upcoming international series.
The BCCI had announced Reddy’s release from the ODI squad as part of its preparation plan for the Test series.
In its earlier statement, the board said:
Nitish Kumar Reddy will remain a part of the ODI squad for the first ODI against New Zealand, which will be played on November 04, 2026.
It further added:
Nitish will link up with the India A squad for the third and final four-day game against New Zealand A, which will help him gain match practice ahead of the two-match Test series against New Zealand, starting November 19, 2026.
The all-rounder has played 10 Tests for India and scored 396 runs, including a memorable maiden century against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He has also taken eight wickets in the format.
His ability to contribute in both departments makes him a useful option for the Indian team. However, there has been no confirmed update on his availability for the opening Test against New Zealand, which begins on November 19.
Why was Nitish Kumar Reddy released from India’s ODI squad?
He was released to join India A and get red-ball match practice ahead of the Test series.
When will India play the Test series against New Zealand?
The two-match Test series will begin on November 19, 2026.
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