Border Gavaskar Trophy: Sunil Gavaskar has an advice for Nitish Reddy

Nitish Kumar Reddy delivered a standout performance to rescue India in the ongoing fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday, December 28. On Day 3, India faced immense pressure after Rishabh Pant's dismissal left the team reeling. Nitish, however, rose to the occasion, stepping up with a remarkable innings that not only stabilized the innings but also demonstrated his composure and class. Walking in at a critical juncture, Nitish built a vital 127-run partnership with Washington Sundar for the eighth wicket. This partnership proved to be a turning point for India, helping the team avoid the follow-on and giving them a fighting chance to stay in the game. Nitish showcased immense maturity and determination, reaching his maiden Test century in front of an electrifying crowd of over 78,000 at the MCG. Adding to the occasion’s significance, his father was present in the stands to witness the momentous achievement.

Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar was among the many to shower praise on the 21-year-old for his exceptional performance. Gavaskar lauded Nitish for his resilience and skill under pressure, emphasizing the importance of such knocks in shaping a young player’s career. While congratulating him on his maiden Test ton, Gavaskar also shared a word of caution, advising the promising talent to remain grounded and committed, and to never take Indian cricket for granted. Nitish’s heroics have set the stage for an exciting continuation of the Test.

“This is the first Test hundred and he is going to score many more in the near future. I am expecting to see him among the runs in the future. He is a star of Indian cricket,” stated Sunil Gavaskar in a recent interview. 

“However, he will have to remember the sacrifices made by his father and other members of the family. Nitish is here because of Indian cricket, and he will have to make sure that he doesn’t take Indian cricket for granted. If he stays true to himself, a successful career lies ahead of him,” he added.

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s stellar century provided India with a lifeline on Day 3 of the fourth Test in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, significantly narrowing the deficit against Australia. Displaying remarkable composure, the 21-year-old remained unbeaten on 105 off 176 balls, ensuring India ended the day at 358/9. Nitish’s innings showcased his ability to handle pressure, guiding India out of a precarious situation while building critical partnerships. As the day concluded, he was joined by Mohammed Siraj, who is on two runs off seven deliveries. The pair will resume India’s innings on Day 4, looking to further reduce the deficit of 116 runs.

While the task ahead remains challenging, Nitish’s form offers a glimmer of hope for India. The team will rely on him and Siraj to add as many runs as possible in the morning session to edge closer to Australia’s total. Siraj, known more for his bowling prowess, will aim to provide steady support at the other end. With the game finely balanced, much depends on how the duo approaches the early exchanges on Day 4. Their contribution could prove pivotal in shaping the outcome of this crucial Test match.