India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has revealed that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy would not find a place in India’s playing XI in the opening Test match against South Africa. The Dutchman said they are thinking of including in-form Dhruv Jurel into the playing XI.

Reddy had played in the two Test matches against the West Indies but hardly got a chance to bowl. Meanwhile, Jurel had impressed in the two Test matches against the West Indies in the absence of injured Pant as he had scored 175 runs in three innings at an average of 87.50. However, with Pant returning to India’s Test squad, it would be interesting to note India’s playing combination.

Jurel has been in fine form and recently returned with scores of 132 and 127 in the second unofficial Test against South Africa A while playing for India A. 

“Our position hasn’t changed on Nitish. He didn’t get a chance in Australia. But looking at the challenge here, I think he’ll miss out from the XI this week,” the assistant coach said in a pre-match press conference.

“Very important to balance the batting depth and specialist bowlers. We don’t want to sacrifice someone just to bring in an all-rounder for the sake of it,” he added.

Doeschate said he would be surprised if they don’t see Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel play together against the Proteas.

“I don’t think you can leave him (Jurel) out of this Test. Someone will have to miss out. That’s a simple answer. He is certain to play this week. I’ll be surprised if we don’t see Dhruv and Rishabh play together,” Ryan ten Doeschate added.

The opening Test match between India and South Africa will be played at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, from November 14 onwards.