India are expected to stick with their winning lineup for the second Test against the West Indies in Delhi, despite the pitch being described as “dry and patchy,” said assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate. He added that retaining the same squad used on the pace-friendly Ahmedabad track reflects the team’s long-term strategy of nurturing a seam-bowling all rounder to provide balance and flexibility, especially for overseas tours.
“I think it’s a little bit too early to say on the pitch, but today this side in particular looks very dry and it’s very patchy,” ten Doeschate said two days out from the Test. “So, we don’t think it’s going to be a wicket that necessarily helps the seam bowlers. I don’t think that’s a big surprise in Delhi.
“And I’d say we’re unlikely to change the combination. One of the objectives, one of the sort of medium-term objectives, is to develop a seam-bowling all-rounder for India. It’s very important when we go away on tours that we have that position covered. We didn’t get a very good look at Nitish last week. So, I think it’s actually a very good opportunity to give Nitish another go and not alter the balance of the team.”
“Nitish To Play Bigger Role In 2nd Test”- Ten Doeschate
Nitish didn’t get an opportunity to bat during India’s innings victory in the first Test and bowled just four overs in a single spell as the first-change bowler. According to Ryan ten Doeschate, this limited involvement makes the second Test a chance to see him contribute more, although the youngster’s fitness may ultimately determine his potential as an all-rounder.
“We see him as a talented seam-bowling all-rounder, but his body will determine his ceiling, just like with Hardik,” he said. “Nitish has proven his batting in Australia, and the focus now is to give him enough game time to develop his bowling. He’s a quality all-rounder with great potential.”
The management’s choice to slot Nitish at No. 8 has raised questions about its impact on his growth, but ten Doeschate stated that the existing middle order offers both flexibility and healthy competition.
“Washy, Jaddu, and Axar can bat anywhere from 5 to 8,” he said. “Nitish batted 8 after returning from injury and missed out on competing last week, but this shows the importance of versatility. Players who can adapt to different positions are stronger, and competition for spots reflects a healthy team environment.”
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