ENG vs IND 2025: India should back Nitish Reddy and not chop and change, says Anil Kumble

Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble was left impressed with the manner Nitish Kumar Reddy performed on the opening day of the third Test between England and India, and believed that the Indian team management must show faith in the all-rounder's abilities.

Kumble lauded Reddy's 14-over outing on the first day of the current game. He admired the unwavering control Reddy displayed with the ball.

“I thought he did quite well in Australia — got a hundred with the bat 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 fast bowlers a breather while still maintaining control. He bowled nearly 14 overs in a spell — that shows fitness and control. He’s young, he’s a capable batter with a century under his belt, and he’s a sharp fielder. India should persist with him and avoid the temptation to chop and change," stated Kumble while speaking on JioHotstar.

He consistently hit the right areas: Kumble on Reddy

After he was done complimenting Reddy's bowling, the former Indian head coach praised the likes of Ravindra Jadeja and Jasprit Bumrah for keeping the Shubman Gill-led outfit in the game. 

“I was surprised at how well Nitish Kumar Reddy bowled. He consistently hit the right areas. That short ball down leg side was a gift, but otherwise, he was disciplined. His delivery to Zak Crawley was a beauty. Sometimes, when you're out of form, things don’t go your way — and Crawley found that out. Dhruv Jurel’s catch was outstanding. Jadeja was probing that line before Tea, and he struck first ball after Tea . And then, of course, you can’t keep Jasprit Bumrah out of the game. He bowled beautifully and picked up a crucial wicket. It’s hard to imagine an innings where Bumrah doesn't have a say,” added Kumble.

The hosts ended the day on 251/4 after opting to bat first. As many as two of the four wickets which India managed to pick up was courtesy of Reddy, who struck twice in his first over to get rid of Ben Duckett (23 off 40) and Zak Crawley (18 off 43).