IND vs SA: Dhruv Jurel or Nitish Kumar Reddy? Ryan ten Doeschate reveals who will play the Kolkata Test against South Africa

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The Indian cricket team’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, has decisively addressed the intense selection debate ahead of the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata between Dhruv Jurel and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

Ten Doeschate confirmed that Jurel’s exceptional form has made him a certain inclusion in the playing XI. This means that all-rounder Nitish Kumar will be the player forced to miss out, despite the team’s long-term plan to develop him as a seam-bowling option for overseas tours.

Ten Doeschate stated that Jurel’s recent red-ball performances were simply too compelling to ignore, warranting his inclusion as a specialist batter alongside the returning Rishabh Pant, who will take the wicketkeeping gloves. Jurel’s position has been solidified by his sublime touch, including his maiden international hundred against the West Indies and the twin centuries he amassed in the recent unofficial Test against South Africa A. The assistant coach confirmed the plan:

“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.” Ten Doeschate was quoted as saying by the Sportskeeda.

This strategic choice means the team will field two wicketkeeper-batters, showcasing how highly the management rates Jurel’s batting prowess, a factor that has moved him beyond being just a backup for Pant.

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The unfortunate consequence of Jurel’s guaranteed spot is the exclusion of Nitish Kumar. The pace-bowling all-rounder, who has been viewed by the team as a long-term investment for overseas conditions, is deemed surplus to requirements for the conditions expected in Kolkata, which typically favor spin. Ten Doeschate admitted that this crucial series requires the team to prioritize balance and specialist players over the development of an all-rounder who didn’t get to bowl much in the subcontinent during his recent opportunities.

“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. 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.” Ten Doeschate concluded.

While the management remains committed to developing Reddy, his limited role as a third seamer in home conditions, coupled with his recent injury setback during the white-ball tour of Australia, means Jurel’s red-hot batting form takes precedence for the opening Test against the Proteas.

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