Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has lauded Nitish Kumar Reddy as the rising star of Indian cricket after the young all-rounder’s remarkable maiden Test century, which played a pivotal role in stabilizing India’s innings in the ongoing fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Reddy ended Day 3 unbeaten on 105, leading India to 385/9 in response to Australia’s 474. His crucial 127-run partnership with Washington Sundar for the eighth wicket not only kept India in the game but also ensured the team avoided the follow-on.
“While this is his first Test century, I have no doubt that many more will follow. He is undoubtedly one of the rising stars of Indian cricket,” Gavaskar commented during his analysis on Star Sports. He further emphasized, “As long as Nitish remains grounded, values the sacrifices made by his family, and stays true to himself, the future will be full of success for him.”
Reddy’s resilient knock, which included 10 boundaries and a six, proved invaluable for India, especially after early dismissals of Rishabh Pant (28) and Ravindra Jadeja (17). His composed batting not only ensured India avoided the follow-on threat but also helped the team hold their ground against Australia’s dominant bowling attack throughout the day.
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who has been impressed by Reddy’s consistency, advocated for his promotion up the batting order. Prior to the MCG Test, Reddy had posted scores of 41, 38*, 42, 42, and 16 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, highlighting his growing maturity as a batsman.
“I firmly believe this will be the last time he bats at No. 7. To maintain the right balance in the team, he should be moved up to No. 5 or 6. This adjustment would enable the team to play five bowlers and provide better flexibility in the middle order,” Shastri explained. “Reddy has the temperament and technical skills to succeed in the top 6, and this would drastically alter the dynamics of the game.”
As India continues to trail by 116 runs, all attention will be on Reddy on Day 4.. As he teams up with tailender Mohammed Siraj, Reddy will look to continue his fine form and reduce the deficit, giving India’s bowlers a chance to challenge Australia in the crucial stages of the match.
