Hardik Pandya's recurring fitness issues and availability concerns have created an all-rounder dilemma for the Indian cricket team. While his value is undisputed, captains often face a choice between batting depth and bowling coverage when he is unavailable. Nitish Kumar Reddy is emerging as a practical replacement, demonstrating a high strike rate with the bat and contributing wickets, mirroring the dual-discipline contribution India needs from an all-rounder.