IND vs AFG: Nitish Reddy returns for the last ODI after recovering from a thigh injury

India all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy returned to the playing eleven for the third and final ODI against Afghanistan in Chennai on Saturday, July 20, after recovering from a thigh injury that ruled him out of the second match. The 23-year-old was one of three changes India made along with Prasidh Krishna and Harsh Dubey as the hosts looked to complete a three-match clean sweep.

India have already clinched the ODI series with wins in Dharamsala and Lucknowwhich gives the team management an opportunity to rotate players and assess squad depth ahead of a busy international calendar.

India captain Shubman Gill confirmed the changes to the side at the toss after Afghanistan opted to bat first.

“Yes, we have made three changes. Prasidh is coming back to the side, Harsh Dubey is coming back and Nitish is too,” Gill said.

Reddy’s return is a welcome boost for India after the all-rounder was sidelined with a sore left thigh ahead of the second ODI. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that the youngster was unavailable for selection due to injury.

“Nitish Kumar Reddy was not available for selection for the second ODI due to a sore left thigh. The BCCI medical team is monitoring his progress,” the management said in a statement released after the draw in Lucknow.

The injury cut short what had been an encouraging run for Reddy in the ODI setup in India. The all-rounder impressed in the series opener and continued to establish himself as a valuable multi-dimensional option in the team with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.

REDDY EYES ANOTHER HAPPY TRIP

Reddy made a significant impact in the first ODI against Afghanistan in Dharamsala, especially with the ball. In the rain-restricted contest, the youngster produced a disciplined spell to finish with figures of 2 for 31 and play a key role in restricting the visitors.

His wickets included Afghanistan’s explosive opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz and veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, two crucial breakthroughs that helped India restrict the opposition to 194. His ability to step in at crucial moments earned praise from the team management and further strengthened his case as a long-term option in India’s white-ball plans.

With the series already secured, India will want to give Reddy valuable game time when he returns from injury. The Chennai ODI also provides another opportunity for Prasidh Krishna and Harsh Dubey to stake their claims ahead of future assignments.

Afghanistan, meanwhile, will be hoping to end the tour on a positive note after defeats in their opening two matches. For India, the focus remains on maintaining momentum and testing combinations, with Reddy’s successful return likely to be one of the key takeaways from the final ODI.

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Published on:

June 20, 2026 1:25 PM IST