Nitish Kumar Reddy is the name on everyone’s lips after his remarkable 85 at the MCG*, which played a crucial role in dragging India out of trouble against Australia. This young all-rounder, known for his humility and determination, has not only proven his mettle on the field but also inspired with his incredible journey from the outskirts of Visakhapatnam to the grand stage of Test cricket.
The MCG Heroics: Nitish Shines Under Pressure
Facing Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, Nitish Kumar Reddy walked in at a precarious 191/6. Partnering with Washington Sundar, Nitish showcased his calm demeanor and technical finesse to build a record eighth-wicket stand worth 105 runs*.
His 85 off 119 balls, laced with confident drives and smart shot selection, was a testament to his maturity beyond his years. From fending off Pat Cummins’ fiery short balls to giving Nathan Lyon the charge, Nitish balanced caution and aggression beautifully.
A Calm Mind Amid Chaos
The match wasn’t devoid of drama. Earlier in the day:
- Rishabh Pant departed while attempting a lap shot, top-edging to Nathan Lyon.
- Ravindra Jadeja, who seemed steady, was undone by Lyon’s clever quicker delivery.
At 221/7, Australia looked set to capitalize, but Nitish and Washington had other plans. Their 32.1-over alliance not only frustrated the Aussie bowlers but also reduced India’s deficit to 148 runs by Tea.
Nitish’s innings wasn’t just about runs—it was a lesson in resilience and adaptation. He avoided risky shots, resisted the temptation of the ramp shot against short balls, and showed incredible temperament.
The Journey: From Humble Beginnings to Test Cricket
Behind Nitish’s rise lies an extraordinary story of perseverance. Raised in Madhurawada, a small town near Visakhapatnam, Nitish’s journey was fueled by his father Mutyala Reddy, who sacrificed everything to nurture his son’s cricketing dreams.
Early Days and Challenges
Nitish’s cricketing journey began at the age of six. Despite criticism from family members and financial struggles, Mutyala ensured Nitish received top-notch training, often traveling long distances to access better facilities.
“When I saw my father cry because of financial struggles, I decided to take cricket seriously,” Nitish once shared. His commitment paid off, as he quickly climbed the ranks in district and state-level cricket.
The IPL Connection
Nitish’s breakthrough came when he was picked as a net bowler for Chennai Super Kings in 2021. He later joined Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2023 IPL for ₹20 lakhs. Despite lucrative offers from other franchises, Nitish stayed loyal to SRH, a decision reflecting his grounded nature.
Hard Work and Mentorship
Nitish’s success is as much about hard work as it is about mentorship. Coaches like Kumar Swamy and Vijay Varma played pivotal roles in honing his skills. From perfecting his bowling action to improving his batting technique, Nitish’s journey was built on small but consistent improvements.
His ability to bowl in the mid-130s with controlled swing and deliver under pressure makes him a rare gem in Indian cricket—a genuine all-rounder.
FAQs
Nitish Kumar Reddy is an all-rounder who contributes with both bat and ball. His recent performances at the MCG highlight his ability to handle pressure and deliver in crucial moments.
Nitish scored an unbeaten 85 off 119 balls*, forming a crucial 105-run stand with Washington Sundar to reduce India’s deficit against Australia.
Nitish was picked by Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 2023 IPL auction. Despite higher offers from other franchises, he stayed loyal to SRH.
Nitish’s rise is attributed to his dedication, his father’s sacrifices, and the mentorship of coaches who believed in his potential from a young age.
Conclusion: The Making of a Star
Nitish Kumar Reddy’s journey from a mischievous child in Madhurawada to scoring a vital 85 at the MCG* is nothing short of inspirational. His calmness under pressure, combined with his technical prowess, makes him a player to watch for the future.
As he inches closer to his maiden Test century, Nitish’s story reminds us of the value of perseverance, hard work, and family support. For Indian cricket, Nitish is not just another player—he’s a beacon of hope, representing the next generation of all-rounders.
With every drive, block, and swing of the ball, Nitish Kumar Reddy is writing a script that will inspire countless young cricketers. For now, all eyes are on the MCG as the 21-year-old continues to make his mark.
Brief Scores:
India: 326/7 (Nitish Reddy 85, Yashasvi Jaiswal 82; Scott Boland 3-49)*
Australia: 474 (Steve Smith 140, Marnus Labuschagne 72; Jasprit Bumrah 4-99)
