Nitish Kumar Reddy's Under-16 coach Kumar Swamy was proud after watching the 21-year-old shine in his first appearance at the iconic MCG against a premier Australian bowling attack. When the Indian fans looked empty after Rishabh Pant's dismissal, Nitish was able to lighten the mood by putting in a performance that will be remembered for years to come. With Washington Sundar on the other side, the sense of nostalgia took over at the MCG. The duo made waves by stitching a 127-run partnership and putting the Indian team in a fighting position.
Three years ago, India found themselves in a similar situation against Australia at The Gabba. Sundar has built an invaluable stand with Shardul Thakur, but this time it was with Nitish at the MCG.
Among the duo, Nitish was far more impressive with his combative approach against a proven Australian bowling line-up. He ended the day unbeaten on 105 off 176 deliveries, with 10 fours and a single six.
Swamy, who has witnessed firsthand the 'hard-working' Nitish's journey from playing for the Andhra team to the Indian side, was filled with pride.
“This is a very proud moment for me as his coach. Our journey started twelve years ago. He is a hardworking cricketer. He has never looked back after being selected for the state under-fourteen team. He won his first award from BCCI in Andhra At that time Nitish did not get a picture with Virat Kohli and today they share a dressing room,” Swamy told ANI.
Nitish's majestic display with the bat left the world of cricket mesmerized. Former cricketers from all over the world went to X to lavish praise on the 21-year-old youngster.
Former cricketer VVS Laxman praised Nitish's century in the Melbourne Test and said the occasion was perfect when the team was in trouble.
“What an innings, dear Nitish. To become the third youngest Indian to score a Test hundred in Aus and what an opportunity to do so with the team in trouble. I'm sure this will be the first of many. Enjoyed of your positivity and fearlessness strokeplay Keep up the good work. God bless you always,” Laxman wrote on X.
Former right-handed opening batsman Wasim Jaffer also praised him on Very well played.”
Former West Indies cricketer and commentator Ian Bishop said: “That's a Test century of high quality and technical skill from 21-year-old Nitish Kumar Reddy. Left the ball expertly and attacked when required. Another deeply moving story of parental sacrifice in Indian cricket,” wrote on X.
India will return to resume the innings on Day 4, still trailing by 116 runs, with Nitish and Mohammed Siraj unbeaten.
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