IND vs AUS: Shardul Thakur and Nitish Reddy in contention for Border-Gavaskar Trophy

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Shardul Thakur and Nitish Reddy are the two names in contention to be named in India's squad for the Border-Gavaksar Trophy 2024-25. The Test series which will consist of five matches against Australia will start from November 22 in Perth.

Considering the pace-friendly conditions of Australia, Indian team management and the selectors are in hunt of a fast-bowling all-rounder. Shardul Thakur has filled the spot for India lately. He was part of Team India's Test tour of Australia in 2020-21, in England and South Africa.

In fact, the Mumba all-rounder scored crucial 67 runs in the first innings and also picked seven wickets in India's historic win at Gabba to clinch the series 2-1. A fifty from his bat also came in the final of WTC 2023 against Australia at The Oval.

However, the 33-year-old is set to face a stiff competition from youngster Nitish Reddy, The Indian Express has reported. Reddy made his T20I debut for India and impressed one and all with his all-round skills.

The Andhra cricketer has also been picked in India A squad for the two four-day matches in Australia. Shardul Thakur has been ignored as the senior campaigner continues to toil hard for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy 2024-25.

In the Ranji Trophy 2023-24 season, Shardul scored 255 runs including a hundred and also picked 16 wickets in five matches as Mumbai won the title for 42nd time.

The report from The Indian Express added that the selectors are expected to meet in Pune after the second Test between India and New Zealand. The Indian team is likely to leave for Australia on November 10. Considering the long nature of the series, the Indian contingent will also have a few net bowlers.