Confusion persists on Harshit Rana vs Nitish Reddy, “it’ll be on Jasprit”, says Morkel

Even before Team India yet to figure out their batting order for the first IND vs AUS Test, another headache for them is around the corner. It is the debate, who to pick between Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana, the two fast-bowling all-rounders in the team. But are raw, and fresh and would be riding high on confidence after their exploits in the Duleep Trophy, and the Ranji Trophy.

Nitish Reddy vs Harshit Rana

But who gets the nod is the big question. While there are many reports suggesting it could be Nitish Kumar Reddy, there are contrasting reports keeping Harshit Rana in front. But if the presser of India bowling coach Morne Morkel is anything to go by, the Hyderbadi could be handed his debut.

Morkel said on Nitish, “He is one of the young guys. Batting all round ability. He’ll be one guy who can hold one end for us, especially for the first couple of days. Wicket to wicket bowler. Any team in the world would want an all rounder who can help the pacers. It’ll be on Jasprit how he uses them. Definitely a guy to keep an eye on in the series.”

IND vs AUS 1st Test

Nitish Reddy has a decent first-class record, where in 23 matches he has picked up 56 wickets, and scored 779 runs, including a ton and two fifties. His batting average is 21, and bowling average is 26. On the other hand, Harshit has fared a bit better overall in his FC career.

In the 10 matches he has played, he has picked up 43 wickets and scored 469 runs. His bowling average is down to 24, and his batting average is a decent 42, with a ton and two fifties as well. In his Ranji match for Delhi vs Assam, not only he scored 59 runs in an innings, but also secured seven wickets.