Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has voiced considerable concerns regarding the management of young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy by the Indian cricket team’s leadership, led by Gautam Gambhir and the selection panel under Ajit Agarkar. Chopra questioned whether the team management and selection committee are aligned in their vision for Reddy’s role within the squad.
In a video posted on his official X account, Chopra expressed confusion over Reddy’s frequent selections without sufficient playing time. At just 22, Reddy has been included in various formats but has struggled to secure a consistent spot on the field. According to Chopra, even when Reddy has made it to the playing XI, he has not been optimally utilized, leaving fans and analysts alike puzzled about his future with the team.
Chopra specifically challenged the divergent views between selectors and the team management regarding Reddy’s potential contributions. While the selection committee seems to see Reddy as a valuable asset capable of balancing the squad—and potentially serving as a backup for established star Hardik Pandya—Chopra believes that the management under captain Shubman Gill and coach Gambhir might not share this perception.
Given this uncertainty surrounding Reddy’s role and the limited opportunities he has received, Chopra suggested that it may be more beneficial for Reddy to focus on domestic cricket and remain match-ready. Reddy is currently part of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand but did not play in the opening match.
Reddy initially gained attention during his performances in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he showcased his skills on the international stage. However, following a dip in form during the 2025 Test series against South Africa, his chances within the national team have diminished. This lack of participation stands in contrast to his domestic performance, where he shone in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, notably claiming a hat-trick for Andhra in a match against Madhya Pradesh.
Chopra’s insights suggest a pressing need for clarity on Reddy’s future, emphasizing that, without more opportunities at the international level, he should concentrate on helping his domestic team while honing his skills. This constructive feedback from Chopra highlights the importance of aligning team strategy with player utilization to avoid wasting talent on the bench.