Why Rinku Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy Are Missing the IND vs ENG 2nd T20I

Indian cricket fans eagerly awaiting the second T20I match against England were surprised to see Rinku Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy missing from the lineup. Both players, known for their contributions to India’s recent T20I successes, were ruled out due to injuries. This has led to significant reshuffles in the squad. Here’s an in-depth look at why they are not playing and how the team has adapted.

In the second T20I between India and England, held in Chennai on January 25, 2025, Indian cricketers Rinku Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy were absent from the playing XI due to injuries.

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Rinku Singh's Absence:

Rinku Singh suffered a low back spasm during the first T20I in Kolkata, which ruled him out of both the second and third matches of the series. 

Nitish Kumar Reddy's Absence:

Nitish Kumar Reddy sustained a side strain during training, leading to his exclusion from the remainder of the series. .

Team Adjustments:

To address these injuries, the Indian team management made strategic changes for the second T20I. All-rounder Washington Sundar and wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel were brought into the playing XI to replace the injured players.

Prior to their injuries, both Rinku Singh and Nitish Kumar Reddy had been contributing significantly to India's T20I endeavors. Rinku had showcased his batting prowess in previous matches, while Reddy had been making notable strides as a pace-bowling all-rounder.

The team and fans are hopeful for the swift recovery of both players, aiming to see them back in action in future matches.

England is touring India for a 5-match T20 series and a 3-match ODI series. The first match of the ongoing T20 series was held in Kolkata, where India won by 7 wickets. Abhishek Sharma was the standout performer, scoring 79 runs off 34 balls as India chased down the target of 133 in just 12.5 overs. In bowling, Varun Chakraborty impressed with 3 wickets for 23 runs in 4 overs. With India leading the series 1-0, England will look to level the series to 1-1 in the upcoming 2nd match, which will be held in Chennai.

Before the 2nd T20 match in Chennai, India faced a big blow as Nitish Kumar Reddy was ruled out for the rest of the series due to a side strain injury.He got this injury during the training session in Chennai. He will be sent to the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru for treatment, as reported by the BCCI in an official statement.

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Injury forces Nitish Kumar Reddy out of the action wishing him a quick comeback! pic.twitter.com/nZXHKDCqzt

— SunRisers OrangeArmy Official (@srhfansofficial) January 25, 2025

Also Read: Under Pressure, Shubman Gill Shines with a Century for Punjab Against Karnataka

Nitish Kumar Reddy didn't bat or bowl in the first T20 in Kolkata, but he made two crucial contributions in the field. He took two important catches, with one being particularly special. While fielding at square leg, Reddy took a stunning diving catch off Varun Chakraborty's bowling to dismiss Jos Buttler, who was the only standout batsman for England in that match, scoring 68 runs. This catch was a turning point in the game.

Shivam Dube will replace Nitish Kumar Reddy in the squad for the 5-match T20 series after Reddy was ruled out for 4 weeks due to injury. Dube will join the team from the 3rd T20 in Rajkot.

Rinku Singh also got injured, suffering from a low back spasm while fielding in the 1st T20I against England on 22nd January. According to the BCCI medical report, he is recovering well, and the medical team is keeping a close eye on him. He will be ruled out for the 2nd and 3rd games of the ongoing 5-match T20I series.

Nitish Kumar Reddy, the 21-year-old Indian cricketer, has caught the attention of cricket fans worldwide with his incredible performances. He recently showcased his talent in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australia. Despite India losing the series 3-1, Reddy stood out as a promising all-rounder. His maiden Test century in the fourth Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) made him the second-highest run-scorer for India in the series. Facing one of the best Australian bowling attacks on their home soil, Reddy's composure and skills earned him widespread praise.

Read Also: 3 Big Changes India Needs to Make in Test Cricket to Avoid Agonizing Defeats

Following his remarkable performance, Nitish Kumar Reddy returned to India and chose to express his gratitude by visiting the sacred Tirupati Temple. In a heartfelt gesture of devotion, he climbed the temple stairs on his knees, a tradition followed by many devotees. Sharing the moment with his fans, he posted a video on Instagram, which quickly went viral.

Nitish Kumar Reddy climbing stairs of Tirupati after scoring ton in his debut series. The peace is in the feet of Govinda 🧡 pic.twitter.com/23xKmNOpaC

— Pari (@BluntIndianGal) January 13, 2025

Nitish Kumar Reddy has quickly impressed everyone with his performances in all formats of cricket. Before his amazing display in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he made a strong debut in a home T20 series against Bangladesh, showing his ability to win matches.

Even before his international debut, he caught attention in the IPL 2024 with excellent performances that marked him as a future star.Australian legend Shane Watson praised him during a live broadcast, calling him his "favorite player" and saying he could be the "next big thing in Indian cricket." Though he has played only a few matches, Reddy has already shown great promise and talent, exciting fans and experts alike.

Reddy’s visit to Tirupati Temple after a career-high moment reflects his grounded personality, leaving a positive impact on his admirers.

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Interestingly, Nitish Kumar Reddy isn’t the only cricketer to seek spiritual guidance during pivotal moments. Virat Kohli recently visited Vrindavan with his wife, Anushka Sharma, and their children, Vamika and Akaay. Kohli attended a spiritual discourse by Premanand Ji Maharaj, showcasing his faith and spirituality. This was his second visit to Vrindavan, the first being during a lean patch in his career two years ago when he hit his 70th international century.

Nitish Kumar Reddy Receives Hero’s Welcome in Visakhapatnam After Impressive Australia Tour

When Nitish Kumar Reddy, the seam-bowling all-rounder from India, came back to his hometown, Visakhapatnam, in Andhra Pradesh, he was welcomed with lots of cheer as he landed at the airport. His great abilities with both the bat and ball made him a big find for the Indian team during the recent test tour of Australia. The big celebration thrown for him when he got home showed how proud his local people were of all the good things he did playing for the country.

As Nitish exited the Visakhapatnam airport, the atmosphere was electric, with excited fans eagerly waiting to greet him. The streets were filled with joy as they showered him with yellow petals, a symbol of respect and admiration. He was presented with a large yellow garland, which added to the festive mood surrounding his return. Cameras captured the heartwarming moments as Nitish was showered with love from his supporters. Nitish, who hails from Gajwuaka, a locality in Visakhapatnam, was seen sitting proudly in the front seat of an open jeep, waving to his fans. His father, Mutyalu, joined him in the vehicle, sitting behind his son, reflecting the family’s pride and joy. The streets were lined with fans eager to get a glimpse of the all-rounder, many of whom cheered and applauded as Nitish passed by, basking in the admiration of his hometown. The reception was a testament to Nitish Kumar Reddy’s rising stature in Indian cricket.

ALSO READ: Dewald Brevis Smashes Record-Breaking 23-Ball Fifty in SA20 2025

INSANE WELCOME FOR NITISH KUMAR REDDY IN HYDERABAD. 🤯🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/XdDWGQSdEY

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 9, 2025

 His performances in Australia had left a lasting impact, and his return to Visakhapatnam was met with a level of adoration befitting a hero. The warm welcome serves as a reminder of the connection between players and their local communities, with Nitish’s success on the global stage only adding to the pride of Visakhapatnam. As he continues to make waves in international cricket, Nitish’s journey is one of hard work, dedication, and the support of his loved ones, who have been with him every step of the way. This hero’s welcome is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting and successful career for the young all-rounder.

When Nitish Kumar Reddy got back to Visakhapatnam, his hometown showed him a very big and special greeting because they're extremely proud and truly respect what he's done internationally. Mr. Reddy mastered it in Australia, proving he's one of the up-and-coming seam-bowling all-rounders for India. With all the support and love he's getting from his town, it's definitely going to drive him to be even better and achieve more success as he keeps going in his cricket career.

Nitish Kumar Reddy Career Stats

India’s Champions Trophy Squad: Key Decisions on Bumrah, Pandya, and New Talent

The Champions Trophy is getting really close, and the India team needs to pick their 15 players. A hefty issue is whether Jasprit Bumrah is healthy enough; he is really important to the team. Mr Bumrah might play a practice game against England to see if he's ready. If he plays, that's good for the bowling team, but everyone's checking on his injury. That's in a literal sense a true statement.

Hardik Pandya will have to do a lot; he is a killer player and leader. Mr Pandya does well under pressure so if he is fit and playing well, the strategy will be better. The selectors are looking at Nitish Reddy who is a newer, good player. His talent might give the team something extra, so it might reconfigure things in the batting order. That's far from obvious. The cricket group that picks the team is going to release a list of which players made the team by January 12. But, the rules say they can make changes before February 13. The coaches can make changes later. Everyone is waiting for the list to be announced in a week.

The choices that they are going to make in the next few days will change things. If Bumrah is healthy and plays or if someone new gets a shot, everyone knows the goal: India wants to win it all again. Team India is really feeling the pressure as the Champions Trophy gets near. They have to choose their top 15 players soon and everyone is nervous because they have to decide by January 12. Everyone's discussing whether Jasprit Bumrah's fit enough, if Hardik Pandya's been playing well, and if a new young person Nitish Reddy might obtain a spot in the group.

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Jasprit Bumrah: A Crucial Fitness Test

The team is really focusing on Jasprit Bumrah, who's the top fast bowler for India. Mr. Bumrah's been out for a while because of a back problem—but now he's becoming healthy and strong again, and everyone's watching how fit he is. There's discussion about maybe letting him play in one ODI against England in Ahmedabad just to see if he's truly prepared to return to playing full time.

If Bumrah can play without any problems, it would greatly benefit the team's bowling line—since he's bringing a lot of skills and experience. But, if there are still worries about his back and how well he's recovered, then the individuals or people in charge will have to think about who else can step in.

Hardik Pandya: The Backbone of the Team

Hardik Pandya is vitally important because he's amazing at playing under stress. Mr. Pandya's of significant consequence in the team's plan of action since he's great with the bat and ball. His job is going to be as central as it gets. His skills in leading are really key too, especially when quick thinking is needed to change the direction of the match.The coaches will really need to make sure Pandya is in top shape and ready to go.

Nitish Reddy: A Rising Star in Contention

India is thinking about adding Nitish Reddy, a young player, to the team because he's proficient at dealing with tough situations and has done well in domestic cricket. Adding him could change how the team sets up their batting, making it stronger in the middle. If Reddy is very well chosen, it would show that India wants to do well both now and later.

Possible India Squad for the Champions Trophy 2025

Flexibility with Squad Changes

While the squad announcement is expected by January 12, ICC rules allow teams to make changes until February 13. This flexibility gives the Indian team management some breathing room to address any fitness or form concerns that might arise during this period.

With the Champions Trophy getting closer, everyone's looking at who makes it into Team India. There's a lot going on: like Jasprit Bumrah needing to pass his fitness test, whether Hardik Pandya can handle being a leader and stay in good shape, and if Nitish Reddy might get picked. These are major choices for the people picking the team because they'll affect how the team plans their trade and works together.

They've got until January 12 to announce the team--but can still make changes until February 13, so it's a good opportunity for India to make their group perfect. They're having the sincere intention to put together the best team they can to win the Champions Trophy and show the world India's on top.

Nitish Reddy Is Better Than Hardik Pandya in Tests": Gavaskar's Verdict

In cricket, people often compare players who do similar things, especially when new stars start doing very good in important matches this is happening with Nitish Kumar Reddy, a 21-year-old Indian all-rounder. Sunil Gavaskar, a cricket legend and former Indian team captain, has said some very wonderful things about him. Gavaskar mentioned that when you see how Nitish Reddy is doing as a Test batter and compare it to what Hardik Pandya was like at a similar point, Nitish might actually be doing better.

Reddy's Rise in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy

Even though Nitish Reddy hasn't played a lot of first-class cricket, he was given an opportunity to play for India in their long game, and he did very well. In the current Border-Gavaskar Trophy series playing against Australia, he's been clearly seen as one of India's top players.

Reddy, being extremely mature for his age, scored 114 runs which was really great for his first ever test century. This happened at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Boxing Day. He wasn't alone, though he and Washington Sundar together made a solid 127 runs, pushing India to a strong spot in the game.

Deep into the series, Reddy has been performing well with 294 runs from four games, and that's got him sitting as the second top scorer for India, right behind Yashasvi Jaiswal. Cricket experts and fans are extremely impressed by how he can handle the tough situations and still score important runs under all that pressure.

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Gavaskar's High Praise

Sunil Gavaskar really praised Nitish Reddy's game. Gavaskar said that when you put Reddy's skills currently facing someone first-rate, like Hardik Pandya, Reddy's manner of batting just shines through the cricket legend had a lot of notably positive remarks to say regarding how Reddy plays.

Gavaskar said Reddy is a significantly better batter now than Pandya was at that time. He also mentioned that it's not only just regarding how many runs Reddy is scoring--but how he's doing it. According to Gavaskar, Reddy has a great way of thinking for playing long games, which you don't see much in young players today. ">Gavaskar pointed out that Reddy's bowling isn't perfect yet--but it's improving.

Acknowledgment for the Selection Committee

Really good decision to pick Reddy, even though he hasn't played much first-class cricket, proved to be wonderful. Gavaskar praised the Indian selection committee, with Ajit Agarkar at the helm, for their ability to see this potential in him ahead of time.

"It's a credit to Ajit Agarkar and his fellow selectors to have seen enough to pitchfork him into the Test arena," Gavaskar noted. "This series could very well mark the beginning of a stellar Test career for Reddy."

The Hardik Pandya Comparison

Hardik Pandya has excellent batting and bowling skills in white-ball cricket for India but he hasn't done as well in Test matches. Even though he's shown he can play the longer version of the game, he hasn't been able to keep up his performance and has missed a lot of Tests because he's been injured. Pandya is a major piece of India's white-ball teams because of his powerful hitting and his skill in getting the ball to seam.

At least when it comes to hitting, Reddy seems to be significantly better cut out for Test cricket. His skill to remain for long innings and change his game depending on what is going on has made people compare him to a portion of the greatest Test all-rounders ever.

Bowling: The Area for Improvement

Everyone's been conversing regarding Reddy's hitting skills but he still needs to improve his abilities in bowling. Gavaskar mentioned, saying, If he can improve his bowling, he might just turn into the all-rounder for tests that India has been on the lookout for.

Reddy's medium-pace bowling has shown promise, but he has yet to make a significant impact with the ball. However, at just 21 years of age, time is on his side to develop this aspect of his game.

A Promising Future

Reddy's excellent start has put India in a good spot in the current series and people are saying this might (simply) be the start of a long win streak for him in Test cricket. Major cricket names, even Sunil Gavaskar, think Reddy is doing very well.

As Indian cricket continues to evolve, players like Reddy are proving that the pipeline of talent remains strong, ensuring that the team remains competitive across formats.

Nitish Kumar Reddy's Father Touches Sunil Gavaskar's Feet: A Heartfelt Moment in Indian Cricket

On Sunday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, something exceptionally wonderful happened. Mutyala Reddy, the father of Nitish Kumar Reddy who just scored a century in a test for India, did something wonderful in front of batting legend Sunil Gavaskar. Reddy really bent over and touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet. It was a special moment to see.

The most emotional and poignant moment - cricket and Indian culture!
Nitish Kumar Reddy’s father, and his respect and emotions for the Great Sunil Gavaskar pic.twitter.com/BXFTTqc9xA

— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) December 29, 2024

The Milestone Achievement

Nitish Kumar Reddy, a 21-year-old all-rounder for India, did something very big during the fourth test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) against Australia by hitting his first-ever test century. Reddy scored an impressive 114 runs from 189 balls, including 11 boundaries and a six. His amazing batting not only pulled India out of a tough spot but also made history. Reddy set a record for the highest score by any Indian batter at number eight or below in a test match in Australia. This achievement really changed everything for India, giving them a chance to shine again during the match.

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A Father's Emotional Gesture

Mutyala Reddy, feeling very emotional, did something traditional from India to show his respect he touched Sunil Gavaskar's feet because he was very grateful and admired him very much this act of respect was strikingly large in the cricket world, pointing out how important culture is at a time like this. It all happened because Mutyala Reddy was very happy and thankful when his son, Nitish Kumar Reddy, did something very special.

Sunil Gavaskar's Response

Gavaskar hugged Mutyala Reddy, obviously touched by what he did. We understand how much he has sacrificed. He has struggled a lot. You're the reason I'm feeling strong feelings. You have given India, and Indian cricket, a real treasure, Gavaskar said, showing a large amount of respect for how much the Reddy family gave up to help Nitish reach his cricket goals.

He pointed out that the connection players have with their families is vitally important to succeed in a big way.

While the Indian team were struggling at 221/7 in reply to Australia’s first innings total of 474 runs in the Melbourne Test, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar built up a historic partnership to rescue the visitors. 

Sensing the batting issue at present, India started the Melbourne Test with the deeper batting option. There was no doubt about the abilities of Washington Sundar and Nitish Kumar Reddy’s batting. Despite playing his first Test series, the 21-year-old Reddy has always shown his incredible batting abilities according to the situation, and Sundar previously played important knocks with the bat. 

Reddy and Sundar set a 127-run partnership for the eighth wicket to rescue the visitors. While Sundar scored 50 runs, Reddy completed his maiden Test century soon after Sundar’s dismissal. Their partnership helped India to score 358/9 at the stumps of the third day.

Also Watch: Nitish Kumar Reddy celebrates his first Test fifty with Pushpa celebration

Second highest partnership (8th or lower wickets) for India in Australia

Reddy and Sundar’s 127-run partnership was India’s second-highest partnership for the eighth or lower wickets in Australia.

Sixth highest partnership (8th or lower wickets) for visitors in Australia

Meanwhile, the 127-run eighth-wicket partnership was the sixth-highest eighth or lower wickets partnership for any visiting team against the hosts Australia. 

Fourth highest partnership (8th or lower wickets) for India outside India

Also, the 127-run eighth-wicket partnership was India’s fourth-highest eighth or lower wickets partnership outside India. 

Nitish Kumar Reddy made history on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test match between India and Australia in the 4th Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Under immense pressure, Reddy scored his first-ever Test century, leaving the crowd and fans filled with emotion. His father, who was present in the stands, couldn’t hold back his tears as he watched his son achieve this incredible milestone.

Later that evening, an even more emotional moment unfolded when Reddy met his parents in his hotel room. His father embraced him tightly, kissed his forehead, and expressed his pride.

His father, Mutyala Reddy, was overwhelmed, shedding tears of joy as he hugged his son. This touching scene, shared by the BCCI, showcased the deep love, sacrifices, and support that shaped Reddy’s journey to success.

Here, watch the video:

𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐣𝐨𝐲 𝐡𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐧’𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐝 𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠.

The Reddy family has been a bundle of emotions today. Witness the magical moment as they embrace Nitish after he wowed the world with his extraordinary maiden Test century at the MCG.

A day etched in memories… pic.twitter.com/uz9mrASuRm

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2024

At the end of Day 3, Nitish Kumar Reddy remained unbeaten on 105, providing hope for India, who still trail by 116 runs. With Mohammed Siraj as the last batter, Reddy’s efforts will be crucial on Day 4 to minimize the deficit.

Earlier in the innings, India had lost Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja quickly, leaving the team in trouble. However, Reddy’s 127-run partnership with Washington Sundar turned things around and kept India’s fight alive.

Reddy’s calmness, and resilience under pressure have made him a rising star. His maiden century, marked by emotional celebrations with his family, will be remembered as one of Indian cricket’s most inspiring moments. 

MSK Prasad Yesterday : “ NITISH KUMAR REDDY Creating confusion in team he is not complete Batter or Bowler, he can't win matches with his Skills"

Today Nitish created History with his maiden Century, Perfect way to shut mouth of Critics 🤫#INDvsAUS

pic.twitter.com/a6PxGxZk6K

— Veena Jain (@DrJain21) December 28, 2024

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been India’s standout performer in this series, emerging as the highest scorer for the team. Throughout the series, he consistently contributed with scores in the 40s, but on this day, he converted his first fifty into a memorable maiden Test century.

The journey to this century wasn’t easy, as India was down to their last three wickets when Washington Sundar’s dismissal ended a crucial 127-run partnership. Jasprit Bumrah followed soon after, leaving only Mohammed Siraj to partner Reddy. With Pat Cummins bowling a fiery over, Siraj had to defend three balls to keep hopes alive.

Showing great determination, Siraj held firm, and in the next over bowled by Scott Boland, Reddy struck a boundary to bring up his century. The day ended early due to a lights issue, with Reddy unbeaten and India trailing by 116 runs. Reddy will resume on Day 4 with Siraj, hoping to push the total further.

With the help of Nitish Kumar Reddy’s unforgettable maiden Test century and Washington Sundar’s brilliant half-century, India managed to bring some challenges for the hosts Australia in the Melbourne Test.

The third day of the fourth match of the five-match Test series started at 164/5 as Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja began the important day.

See Also: Rishabh Pant’s Bizarre Dismissal at MCG Sparks Sunil Gavaskar’s Furious Reaction-‘Stupid, Stupid, Stupid’

Pant and Jadeja lost wickets in the key moments

Starting the day with some nervy moments, Pant and Jadeja had a 32-run partnership for the sixth wicket before Pant lost his wicket to Scott Boland after attempting to scoop as Nathan Lyon took the catch at the third man. After scoring 28 off 37 balls with the help of three fours, Pant lost his wicket disappointedly. 

Jadeja had a little 30-run partnership for the seventh wicket with Nitish Kumar Reddy before Lyon dismissed him through an lbw. Jadeja lost his wicket for 17 runs as his review was unluckily resulted in the umpire’s call.

Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar set a hundred partnership

While Washington Sundar joined Reddy, India were struggling at 221/7, and they were still 54 runs away to avoid follow-on. Although the visitors were struggling, Reddy and Sundar set up a solid partnership to rescue the visitors. 

Reddy and Sundar continuously built up a solid partnership, while Reddy completed his first Test half-century in 81 balls. Even, they handled the second new ball really well. 

Sundar completed 50 runs, Reddy recorded his first Test century

Sundar reached his fourth Test half-century in 146 balls, while their eighth wicket partnership comfortably completed 100 runs. While Lyon finally broke that 127-run eighth-wicket partnership by dismissing Sundar for 50 runs off 162 balls (one four), the Aussie captain Pat Cummins dismissed Jasprit Bumrah for a duck, leaving Reddy's deserving first Test century dream in threat.

However, the last batter Mohammed Siraj didn’t disappoint with the bat, as Reddy completed his first Test century by hitting a four to Scott Boland. Soon the second rain interruption of the day ended the third day of the Melbourne Test very early with India’s first innings total of 358/9. The visitors are still 116 runs behind Australia’s first innings total of 474 runs.