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Many questioned Reddy’s Test call-up, doubting whether a young player known for his IPL exploits could succeed in the longer format. However, he silenced the critics with 293 runs in six innings at an impressive average of over 58.
Nitish Reddy scored a valiant hundred against Australia at the MCG
Nitish Reddy stole the show on the third day of the fourth Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) with a determined century, cementing his place in the Test side and proving his mettle at the highest level. The 21-year-old’s 114 formed the backbone of India’s first-innings total of 369 and showcased his ability to thrive under pressure.
Many questioned Reddy’s Test call-up, doubting whether a young player known for his IPL exploits could succeed in the longer format. However, he silenced the critics with 293 runs in six innings at an impressive average of over 58.
“Some people doubted me like a youngster who played IPL can’t perform in such a big series. I know a lot of people did talk like that,” Reddy said after the fourth day’s play. “I just want to make them feel wrong about what they have said about me. I want people to know that I am here to give my 100 per cent for the Indian team.”
Reflecting on the journey leading to his remarkable innings, Reddy said, “I guess for you guys, it is like one or two months. For me, it’s like, I can see my past two to three years. How hard I’ve been working on my batting and bowling.”
To prepare for the challenges of international cricket, Reddy revealed that he had worked with side-arm throwdown specialists ahead of the 2024 IPL. He practised against deliveries clocking up to 145 km/h from just 18 yards to sharpen his batting technique.
“After the first IPL season, I realised what I have to improve in my batting, and I came up with a plan. During the off-season, I worked a lot on my batting, and that’s what is giving results now,” Reddy explained. “It’s not about one or two months. I have been putting in the work for the last two or three years to be here.”
Reddy also shared a special moment with his idol, Virat Kohli, who gave him a standing ovation for his century.
“I have been watching Virat from my childhood. He is my idol, and now finally, I have played with him,” Reddy said. “When he scored a hundred in Perth, I was at the non-striker’s end. I felt so happy. Now, I scored a century, and he appreciated me. He came to me and said, ‘You really played well, you got the team back in the game.’ That’s the best moment for me.”
As India heads into the final day of the Test match, Reddy remains optimistic about the team’s chances.
“First, we have to take their last wicket. We will come back strongly and rectify our mistakes from the first innings,” Reddy concluded.
- Location :
Melbourne, Australia
