Nitish Reddy for Test debut in Oz

Youngster adopts Kohli's fitness & Hardik's diet in his quest to become an all-format player

- FIROZ MIRZA

THE Border-Gavaskar Trophy begins in Perth on Friday with India trying to move on quickly after a shock 0-3 loss against New Zealand at home recently.

The unavailability of skipper Rohit Sharma for the series opener and thumb injury to Shubman Gill mean India's playing XI will wear a different look than what it was against the visiting Kiwis.

A few changes are also expected due to the nature of the Perth wicket, with pace bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy expected to make his Test debut.

Bowling coach Morne Morkel spent most of his time with the cricketer from Andhra during nets on Tuesday.

With the ball, he can prove to be handy on the Perth wicket and can also lengthen India's batting while coming in at No. 8.

The 21-year-old made his international debut last month, playing three T20Is against Bangladesh.

Come Friday, he may be seen in India whites much to the delight of his coach from U-19 days, N Nirmal Kumar.

"These issues (selection) are handled by the team management, so I really don't know, but indications are there for everyone to see.