AUS vs IND: Here’s why Nitish Reddy is not playing today’s match at SCG

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India’s rising all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy was ruled out of the third ODI against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), leaving fans curious about his absence.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the 21-year-old sustained a left quadriceps injury during the second ODI in Adelaide, forcing him to miss the last match of the series. The setback came as a blow to India’s team balance, given Reddy’s growing role as a dependable lower-order batter and seam-bowling option.

According to BCCI medical staff, Reddy suffered the injury while fielding during the Adelaide clash. The team’s physiotherapists assessed his condition and advised rest, deeming it unsafe for him to take the field at Sydney. With several international series and domestic tournaments lined up, the management chose to prioritize Reddy’s rehabilitation and long-term fitness over short-term participation.

In a formal statement, the BCCI noted:

“Nitish Kumar Reddy is unavailable for selection in the third ODI due to a left quadriceps injury sustained in the previous game. He remains under the observation of the medical team and will continue his rehabilitation before a return is considered.”

This assurance indicated that the injury, while significant enough to sideline him for this match, is not expected to be a long-term concern.

Reddy’s injury comes just as he was finding rhythm at the international level. Known for his composed batting and clever seam bowling, the young all-rounder has impressed selectors and fans since his debut. His ability to steady innings under pressure and contribute crucial overs in the middle phase has made him one of India’s most promising limited-overs prospects.

Reddy’s absence prompted strategic reshuffles in India’s playing XI for the third ODI. Kuldeep Yadav made his return to exploit the traditionally spin-friendly conditions at the SCG, while Prasidh Krishna replaced Arshdeep Singh to strengthen the pace department. The team sought a balanced attack featuring both seamers and spinners to counter Australia’s aggressive batting lineup.

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India: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (c), Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

Australia: Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Matthew Short, Matt Renshaw, Alex Carey (wk), Cooper Connolly, Mitchell Owen, Nathan Ellis, Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood.

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