Suryansh Shedge Issues 1st Statement After India's Maiden Call-Up

Suryansh Shedge and Nitish Kumar Reddy (Source: AFP)The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has named young all-rounder Suryansh Shedge as a replacement for Nitish Kumar Reddy in India's squads for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and England. It is important to note that Nitish Reddy was ruled out of both series due to an injury. The 23-year-old has impressed selectors with his recent performances and now has the opportunity to represent India. When And How Nitish Kumar Reddy Was Injured?Nitish Kumar Reddy suffered a setback after the third ODI against Afghanistan. According to a statement released by the BCCI, the all-rounder reported discomfort in his left quadriceps following the match.After undergoing a detailed medical assessment, the BCCI Medical Team recommended a period of rehabilitation. As a result, Nitish Reddy was ruled out of both the T20I series against Ireland and England.Also Read: Nitish Kumar Reddy Injury Timeline ExplainedIn official statement, the BCCI said, "Nitish reported left quadriceps discomfort after the third ODI against Afghanistan on June 20. Following a subsequent medical assessment, the BCCI Medical Team has recommended a period of rehabilitation, ruling him out of both T20I series."It is worth noting that India had already suffered another injury concern recently, with Varun Chakaravarthy being ruled out of the Ireland series following a left foot injury sustained during IPL 2026.Why Did BCCI Choose Suryansh Shedge As Nitish Kumar Reddy’s Replacement?Suryansh Shedge earned his maiden India call-up after delivering consistent performance for India A in the recently concluded tri-series in Sri Lanka.The star player scored 147 runs in five matches at an average of 36.75 and a strike rate of 120.49. Apart from his contributions with the bat, he also picked up two wickets while maintaining an economy rate of 6.04.Suryansh Shedge Talks About His Maiden India Call-UpReacting to this moment, Suryansh Shedge admitted that he is still struggling to process the news.“Actually, I still can’t sink it in, and I think I won’t be able to sink it in until I get on the flight! I still can’t believe it! This has been my dream since childhood. And obviously, it’s a very special feeling. And I feel very proud and happy for my parents (Prashant and Priyadarshini), because of the sacrifices they have made for me. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t have been able to be a cricketer." Suryansh Shedge stated, speaking to Times of India.“My mom was working in a bank, but she quit her job because she had to accompany me to practice and matches"."The way Manish Bangera, Jatin and Monty Desai have helped me through my journey, it’s very heartwarming because they truly believed in me.""That’s totally true. In the last two years, I’ve made four debuts under him — in the SMAT, Vijay Hazare Trophy, India A and the IPL. He’s somebody who gives his 100% in terms of attitude and commitment to the team, and that mentality creeps into the whole side."Speaking about India's new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, Suryansh Shedge praised his leadership qualities and influence on the team.Also Read: 5 Greatest Run-Scorers Who Failed As Captains Ft. Joe Root, AB de Villiers