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Nitish Kumar Reddy deserves one more chance, says Cheteshwar Pujara

India’s T20I series against the West Indies remains tightly contested as veteran batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has publicly backed Nitish Kumar Reddy for another chance in the playing XI for the fourth match on October 14. Despite modest returns—30 runs and two wickets across the first three games—Reddy has featured in every match so far, with India holding a 2-1 lead after a 14-run victory in the third T20I on October 11.

Speaking on JioHotstar, Pujara praised Reddy’s effort and suggested the all-rounder deserves one more opportunity at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, where the pitch conditions will play a critical role in final selections.

Pujara also outlined a predicted XI for the upcoming clash, retaining the top order with Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma opening, followed by Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer, and Tilak Varma. Reddy would slot in at number six, with Naman Dhir and Axar Patel occupying the middle and lower order.

Among the bowlers, Arshdeep Singh and Mayank Yadav are set to lead the attack, while the decision between Prince Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav for the final spot hinges on whether the pitch favors spinners or fast bowlers. Pujara emphasized that the Hyderabad surface could dictate the team’s final lineup, particularly for the spin-pace balance.

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