Sources: 
India's upcoming five-Test series against England has intensified the competition for the seam bowling all-rounder spot between Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur.
Nitish Kumar Reddy, who impressed with a Test hundred against Australia at the MCG last year, is valued for his "magical" bowling deliveries. However, India's bowling coach Morne Morkel emphasizes the need for Reddy to bowl more overs to complement his batting skills and maintain consistency.
"Morne Morkel values Reddy’s bowling skills and stresses the need for consistency," highlighting the coach's focus on Reddy's dual role.
Shardul Thakur, known primarily as a seamer, remains a seasoned contender for the same slot, making the selection a tactical decision for the team management.
Meanwhile, former India opener Robin Uthappa has voiced his preference for KL Rahul to continue opening alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, citing Rahul's past success in Australia and England.
"For me, I want to start stronger right at the top, and I would want KL Rahul to open there," Uthappa said, underscoring the importance of a solid opening partnership.
The team’s composition will likely balance batting strength and bowling depth, with Reddy potentially serving as the fourth fast-bowling option and a key all-rounder at No. 7.
"At No. 7, I will have Nitish Kumar Reddy because he is a proper fast-bowling all-rounder," Uthappa added, reflecting the strategic value of Reddy’s versatility.
As the series approaches, the final decision will weigh Reddy’s all-round capabilities against Thakur’s seam experience, with Morkel’s coaching insights playing a crucial role in shaping India’s Test XI.
Sources: India's Nitish Kumar Reddy and Shardul Thakur are competing for a seam bowling all-rounder spot in the upcoming England Test series. Bowling coach Morne Morkel values Reddy's magical deliveries but urges more bowling consistency. Former opener Robin Uthappa supports KL Rahul as opener alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
