India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has confirmed that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy will be expected to take on a more significant bowling role during the upcoming Test series in England, with frontline pacer Mohammed Shami sidelined due to fitness issues and Jasprit Bumrah’s workload set to be carefully managed.
The five-Test series begins on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds. Team management has already indicated that Bumrah, India’s pace spearhead, is likely to feature in only three of the five matches. That puts added pressure on seam-bowling all-rounders like Reddy and Shardul Thakur to fill any void.
Morkel, speaking after a training session in Beckenham on Wednesday, said he has challenged Reddy to increase his bowling output.
“He’s got the ability to bowl that magic delivery,” Morkel said. “But for him, it’s about building consistency. That’s something we’re working hard on — not just for the team, but for his own growth as a player.”
“I want to see the ball in his hands more often. We already know what he brings with the bat. In English conditions, having an all-rounder who can contribute significantly with the ball could be a game-changer.”
Reddy has taken five wickets in as many Tests, all during India’s tour of Australia. With Shami unavailable and only Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj guaranteed spots in the pace unit, India will rely on depth — including options like Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, and Prasidh Krishna.
Morkel emphasised the importance of starting strong, especially against an England team known for their high-octane, aggressive batting style.
“Against a team like England, we have to hit the ground running,” Morkel said. “There’s no time to settle in. That’s what’s impressed me — even in the limited sessions we’ve had, the bowlers have taken ownership, stepped up, and shown they understand the challenge ahead.”
With demanding conditions and a bold English batting approach, India’s bowling depth and adaptability will be thoroughly tested — and Reddy’s increased role could be crucial.
