New Delhi:
In a thrilling display of grit, determination, and cricketing prowess, 21-year-old Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy stole the spotlight on Day 3 of the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Reddy’s maiden Test century not only marked a personal milestone but also breathed new life into India’s hopes of salvaging the match and keeping their World Test Championship (WTC) aspirations alive.
The fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy had been a rollercoaster ride for India, with Australia dominating the proceedings after posting a formidable 474 in their first innings, thanks largely to Steve Smith’s impressive 140. India’s response was marred by early wickets, leaving them reeling at 173/5 by the end of Day 2. The task ahead for the Indian team was daunting, with the need to avoid the follow-on and build a competitive total.
Nitish Kumar Reddy, who had been under scrutiny for his selection ahead of established players like Shubman Gill, silenced his critics with a scintillating innings. Walking in to bat with India struggling at 191/6, Reddy partnered with Washington Sundar to stitch a crucial 126-run stand. This partnership not only helped India avoid the follow-on but also gave them a realistic chance of saving the Test.
Reddy’s century was a masterclass in patience and aggression. He reached the three-figure mark off 171 balls, including one six and nine boundaries, with a boundary off Scott Boland’s delivery sealing the milestone.
Reddy’s achievement is historic on several fronts. He became the first Indian batter to score a century in Australia while batting at No.8, breaking Anil Kumble’s record for the highest score by an Indian at No.8 or lower in Australia. Additionally, he is the youngest Indian after Sachin Tendulkar and Rishabh Pant to score a Test century in Australia.
