India’s ongoing ODI series against New Zealand has sparked unexpected off-field debate after former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan came out strongly in support of young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, following blunt remarks from assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate.

Reddy, who has featured in the playing XI for the last two ODIs, found himself under scrutiny after India’s loss in the second ODI in Rajkot. Speaking at the post-match press conference, ten Doeschate questioned the 22-year-old’s impact, stating that despite limited opportunities, the Andhra Pradesh cricketer “often ends up not doing a heck of a lot” with either bat or ball.

The comments drew a sharp response from Zaheer, who stressed that Reddy is still in the early stages of his international career and needs time, trust and backing rather than public criticism.

“I think it’s asking too much of Nitish Reddy at this moment if this is the case. It’s still early days, so it’s about creating an environment of security for him,” Zaheer said on Cricbuzz. “The management should ensure he’s given the freedom to express himself and cement his place. Even if he fails, that’s fine, but give him that comfort.”

Zaheer further warned that excessive pressure could negatively affect a young player’s mindset.
“In that process, desperation can creep in, or a failure can lead to ten times more pressure to perform. The management needs to be wary of maintaining the player’s emotional balance. Their primary role should be to ease pressure in the dressing room, not add to it,” he added.

Ajinkya Rahane backs Nitish Kumar Reddy

Former India captain Ajinkya Rahane also voiced his support for the 22-year-old, urging the team management to show patience and clarity while developing Reddy into a genuine all-rounder.

The Kolkata Knight Riders skipper emphasised that Reddy should be given the same freedom and role that Hardik Pandya has played for India in limited-overs cricket.

“It’s important that the management gives him freedom to perform,” Rahane said. “He hasn’t played a lot of domestic cricket, so he needs confidence from the team. He is replacing Hardik Pandya, so whatever role Hardik is expected to play in the ODI World Cup, you have to give Nitish Kumar Reddy the same role and back him.”

Despite a sensational breakthrough century in Australia, the Visakhapatnam-born all-rounder has struggled to make an impact at the international level. In three ODIs so far, Reddy has managed just 47 runs at an average of 23.5 and is yet to take a wicket.

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