Aakash Chopra Praises Reddy’s Spin Bowling as He Eyes Hardik Pandya Successor

Aakash Chopra lauded Nitish Kumar Reddy for his bowling prowess, noting that the Andhra Pradesh all‑rounder is rapidly emerging as a potential successor to Hardik Pandya.

During the first ODI between India and Afghanistan at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Saturday, June 13, Reddy delivered a masterful spell. He claimed two wickets in four overs, including that of Afghanistan’s centurion Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and recorded a decisive yorker that removed the wicketkeeper‑batter’s middle stump. Reddy’s spell, which yielded 31 runs, showcased both skill and endurance.

“Let’s talk about Nitish Kumar Reddy because the search for a Hardik‑Pandya replacement has been ongoing for years,” Chopra said in a video on his YouTube channel. “India has been looking for a seam‑bowling all‑rounder, and Hardik has missed a lot of cricket due to injuries.”

“Hardik plays only white‑ball cricket and has limited his appearances in longer formats,” he added.

“Nitish Kumar Reddy Marks Another Milestone in India’s Bowling Arsenal”

Chopra highlighted Reddy’s notable improvement in his bowling and praised his resilience after being hit for a six by Gurbaz.

“We’ve tried various players without consistent results,” Chopra said. “Nitish’s improvement is a testament to his hard work. He began by giving a straight six, then answered with a lethal yorker to hit Rahmanullah’s stumps, followed by another wicket.”

Reddy boasted an impressive campaign with the ball for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL this year. Chopra identified key areas where Reddy has advanced, emphasizing his ability to bowl challenging overs with precision and confidence.

“He consistently delivers quality overs and maintains excellent seam position, speed, and control,” Chopra observed. “Reddy’s performance is crucial for the future of Indian cricket.”

In the rain‑curtailed match, Afghanistan were all out for 194 in 24.5 overs. India chased 195 in 25 overs, securing victory with seven wickets remaining and 13 balls to spare. Captain Shubman Gill finished unbeaten on 84 off 66 balls, while Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul contributed with impactful cameo performances.

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