With key pacers missing and workload management in play, India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has called upon young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy to step up during the crucial Test series against England starting June 20 at Leeds.

The visitors will be without veteran Mohammed Shami due to fitness issues while spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is expected to feature in only three of the five Tests. This puts additional responsibility on seam-bowling all-rounders Reddy and Shardul Thakur to fill the void.

Morkel revealed he's been working closely with Reddy to develop more consistency with the ball. "He possesses that ability to produce magic deliveries," said the South African after Wednesday's training session in Beckenham. "My challenge to him has been simple - I want to see that red ball in his hands more often."

The bowling coach emphasized how crucial Reddy's development could prove for team balance. "We all know his batting capabilities, but if he can become a reliable bowling option, especially in these English conditions, he could be the perfect complement to our attack," Morkel explained.

The 24-year-old Andhra cricketer has limited Test experience with just five wickets from as many matches, all coming during India's previous tour of Australia.

Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj remain automatic selections when available, with Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna completing India's pace options against England's much-vaunted 'Bazball' approach.

Morkel stressed there would be no settling-in period against England's aggressive batting lineup. "We must hit our straps immediately," warned the former Proteas quick. "What's impressed me most these past two sessions is how our bowlers have taken complete ownership - they understand this will be one of their toughest examinations."

The series opener at Headingley promises an intriguing battle between India"s rejigged bowling unit and England"s revolutionary batting philosophy that has transformed Test cricket over recent years.