India's bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has thrown a challenge at young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy ahead of the crucial five-Test series against England. Morkel believes that Reddy possesses the skill to bowl "magical" deliveries and wants him to increase his bowling workload to better complement his batting abilities. This comes as India looks to solidify its pace options, especially with managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload a key consideration.

Reddy, who impressed with a Test century against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, is vying for the seam-bowling all-rounder spot in the playing XI. He's in direct competition with the experienced Shardul Thakur. While Thakur has the advantage of having played 11 Tests, Reddy is seen as a potentially more versatile option, particularly in the often seam-friendly English conditions.

Morkel's challenge to Reddy comes after the latter bowled 26.5 overs in two unofficial "Tests" against England Lions. The bowling coach wants to see more of the ball in Reddy's hands. "I think he (Reddy) is skillful. He is a guy who can bowl that magical ball. So for him, it is about creating that consistency, and that's something we want to work on. It's important for his game as well," Morkel stated. He further added, "I've had conversations with him where I've challenged him to bowl a bit more. I want to see the ball more in his hands. We all know what he can do with the bat. But for a team, if you can have those bowling options, especially in these conditions, I think he'll be one to be excited and compliment his bowling at that."

While Morkel acknowledged Reddy's potential, he also emphasized the importance of consistency. He believes that developing consistency in his bowling will be crucial for Reddy's overall game and will make him a more valuable asset to the team, especially in the English conditions where his bowling could offer a significant advantage.

When questioned about the selection between Reddy and Shardul Thakur for the first Test at Headingley, Morkel remained diplomatic, highlighting the importance of balance within the team. "In terms of the balance, we're very happy with that. But for us as a bowling unit, finding that gear that we're going to need in Test matches is going to be important," he said.

Morkel also touched upon the team's preparation for the series, emphasizing the need to regain Test match fitness and sharpness, especially given the extended break from Test cricket. He pointed out the unique challenges of English conditions, noting that while overcast skies can be helpful for bowlers, good batting surfaces are also expected. He expressed satisfaction with the players taking responsibility during training sessions and acknowledged the tour would be a tough one.

Regarding Jasprit Bumrah, Morkel dismissed concerns about his match fitness, saying, "Bumrah knows how to get himself ready, he knows how to prepare. I was blown away to see the energy on the ball the last three days. That's very exciting to see. I'm happy his body is in good shape at the moment. We'll manage him with that. We'll be smart with him because he's obviously key for us, but in terms of the first three net sessions, lot to be excited watching him bowl with the Dukes ball.” Morkel's confidence in Bumrah is a major boost for India, as the pacer is expected to lead the bowling attack in the series.

With the series set to commence on June 20, the Indian team will look to fine-tune their preparations in the coming days. A four-day warm-up fixture against India A will provide further clarity on the bowlers' readiness and give Nitish Reddy another opportunity to showcase his bowling skills and stake his claim for a place in the playing XI.