All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been released from India's Test squad ahead of the first match against South Africa. He will join the India A team for a three-match One-day series against South Africa A in Rajkot, scheduled from 13th to 19th November at the Niranjan Shah Stadium. After the series concludes, Reddy is expected to rejoin India's red-ball squad for the second Test at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati from 22nd to 26th November. The 22-year-old featured in two Test matches against the West Indies in October, scoring a quick 43 runs off 54 balls in his only batting opportunity. With the ball, he bowled four overs, conceding 16 runs without a wicket. His temporary move to India A gives him match practice while the senior team focuses on the opening Test against South Africa.
Squad Changes and Player Roles for First Test
According to India's assistant coach Ryan Ten Doeschate, Dhruv Jurel is almost certain to play in the first Test, possibly as a specialist batter. Jurel impressed by scoring two unbeaten centuries in the second unofficial Test between India A and South Africa A in Bengaluru. He had previously scored 175 runs in three innings at an average of 87.5 against the West Indies in Rishabh Pant's absence due to a foot injury. With Pant now back and expected to keep wickets, Jurel will likely bat in the lower order. The updated Test squad includes Shubman Gill as captain, Pant as vice-captain, and a balanced mix of batters and bowlers for the South Africa series.
Source: Link