LUCKNOW, Sept. 10 -- Uttar Pradesh's rising bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam has been named in the India A squad for the three-match one-day series against Australia, scheduled at Puducherry on October 6, 9 and 11, BCCI confirmed on Wednesday. Before joining the India A squad at the Puducherry for the series against Australia A, Nigam would be attending an off-season camp of Delhi Capitals in Delhi. "This would be a good opportunity to prepare myself before the ties against Australia A," said Nigam on Wednesday while expressing happiness over his selection. "I will try to give my best for India A and I am well prepared for the matches," he further said. Nigam's selection follows an impressive run of form that included seven wickets and a 100 plus runs in India A's tri series win in Sri Lanka in June, and a standout showing in the UPT20 League. The 2004 born talent, noted for lower order power hitting and deceptive leg breaks, has been a consistent performer since his domestic debut in 2024. Statistics underline Nigam's rise: 13 wickets from 19 Indian Premier League appearances for Delhi Capitals, 26 List A scalps, 20 in first-class cricket and 34 in T20s. His performances across formats have drawn praise from coaches and selectors alike. A native of Barabanki, Nigam first caught attention for his wicket taking ability and finishing prowess. The UPT20 League proved pivotal - his 20 wickets in 11 matches for Lucknow Falcons showcased his knack for breaking partnerships and controlling crucial phases. That campaign elevated him from local prospect to a player deemed ready for higher honours. Nigam further enhanced his reputation during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, smashing a rapid 27 off eight balls in a quarterfinal chase for Uttar Pradesh. His IPL outings have been equally eyecatching : a memorable 39 off 15 balls for Delhi Capitals against Lucknow Super Giants confirmed he can handle pressure on big stages. In fact, Nigam's combination of leg spin, lower order heft and temperament make him a useful asset in Indian conditions. His India A call up is being viewed as a natural progression for a player whose raw promise has steadily matured into dependable match influence. If Nigam continues to refine his control and sustain his fearless approach with the bat, observers say he could move quickly from a domestic standout to a regular option in India's white ball plans. Meanwhile, all-rounder Hardik Pandya has been picked for the series subject to full fitness. The 32-year-old Pandya last played a competitive match during last edition's disastrous IPL ampaign for Mumbai Indians. Since then, he has been out of action with the latest being a quadriceps injury which prevented him from attaining full fitness. Devdutt Padikkal will lead the India A multi-day squad while Ruturaj Gaikwad will captain the one-day side in the upcoming home series in which they will play two multi-day red ball games and three 50-over matches....