Nitish Reddy released from India's squad for Kolkata Test

Nitish Kumar Reddy has been released from India's squad for the first Test against South Africa in Kolkata. The all-rounder will instead join the India A side for the one-day series against South Africa A in Rajkot, scheduled between November 13 and 19. He will return to the senior squad in time for the second Test in Guwahati, starting November 22.

Despite India's plans to groom Reddy as an all-rounder for future overseas tours, he received limited opportunities against West Indies. He bowled just four overs on a green track in the first Test in Ahmedabad and didn't bowl at all in Delhi. Reddy also had a brief batting stint at No.5, facing 54 balls without making a strong case for retention.

His release is unsurprising given his vulnerable spot in the squad, likely to be taken by Dhruv Jurel. The wicketkeeper-batter has been in outstanding form, recently scoring twin unbeaten centuries against South Africa A, adding to his hundreds against West Indies in Ahmedabad and Australia A in Lucknow.

Jurel had previously kept wickets in Rishabh Pant's absence during the home series against West Indies. With Pant now fit and available to reclaim the gloves, and Jurel's rich form, India have selection clarity ahead of the series opener.

"I don't think you can leave him [Jurel] out for this Test, is the short answer," Ryan ten Doeschate, India's assistant coach, said. "But obviously, you can only pick XI as well, so someone else will have to miss out. I think we've got a pretty good idea of the combination. And given the way Dhruv's gone in the last six months and scoring two 100s in Bangalore last week, he's certain to play this week."