Nitish Kumar Reddy Doubtful For India Vs Sri Lanka Test Series

Nitish Kumar Reddy (Source: X)

India have suffered a major setback ahead of their upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. According to reports, all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is doubtful for the upcoming IND vs SL Test series.

The young all-rounder is still recovering from a left quadriceps injury and, despite making steady progress in rehabilitation, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) is expected to avoid rushing him back into the longest format.

Nitish Kumar Reddy suffered discomfort while bowling during the opening ODI against Afghanistan in Dharamsala.  Although he was rested for the second ODI, he returned for the third match in Chennai, where the workload aggravated the injury.

Also Read: List Of Indian Players Who Suffered Injuries In 2026

India vs Sri Lanka Test Series Schedule

India's two-match Test series against Sri Lanka will begin with the first Test from August 15 to August 19 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium in Galle. 

The second and final Test will be played from August 23 to August 27 at the Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground in Colombo.

Will Nitish Kumar Reddy Play In IND vs SL Tests?

According to reports from Cricbuzz, Nitish Kumar Reddy is unlikely to be picked for India's upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka. 

The all-rounder, who was part of India's squad for the New Chandigarh Test against Afghanistan in June, has been undergoing rehabilitation for his quadriceps injury at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

However, according to the same reports, Reddy has resumed bowling during his recovery, but the BCCI believes the two-Test series has come too early for him, and the management does not want to take any risks with his fitness.

It is vital to note that India's squad for the Sri Lanka series is expected to be announced on Tuesday, July 28, with the selection meeting likely to be held virtually.

When Will Nitish Kumar Reddy Return?

It is worth noting that with Nitish Kumar Reddy doubtful for the Sri Lanka Test, there is a chance he might recover and attain full fitness before the West Indies tour of India 2026. The West Indies tour consists of three ODIs and 5 T20Is.

Nitish Kumar Reddy's Injury Timeline

• 20 June: Nitish suffered a significant setback to his left quadriceps during the 3rd ODI against Afghanistan in Chennai. The issue became worse after he had first experienced discomfort in the opening ODI in Dharamsala.
• 22–23 June: Medical examinations revealed swelling and damage to muscle fibres. As a result he was ruled out of the white-ball tours of Ireland and England.
• Late June – July: He started a four-week recovery programme at the CoE in Bengaluru. As a result, he was ruled out of the white-ball tours of Ireland and England.
• Late July: During the final phase of his recovery, Nitish Kumar Reddy returned to light bowling sessions in the practice nets, but there is a chance that he might not be included in the IND vs SL series.

Also Read: Jasprit Bumrah Unlikely To Play In India vs Sri Lanka Tests; Key Update On Injured Stars