Indian cricket Star Reddy Blazes to Century in Melbourne Test
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Melbourne, Australia – In a stunning display of resilience and skill, 21-year-old Indian cricketer Nitish Kumar reddy, hailing from Andhra Pradesh, smashed a maiden century in the gripping Melbourne Test against Australia. His heroic knock came on a challenging pitch that proved tough even for seasoned batsmen, rescuing India from the brink of collapse.
Reddy’s century, achieved off 171 balls with 10 fours and a six, was a testament to his unwavering determination. “Reddy scored his maiden century off 171 balls with 10 fours and a six,” a cricket analyst noted. Despite the constant fall of wickets at the other end,Reddy remained steadfast,ultimately reaching his milestone with Mohammad Siraj watching on as his partner.
The Indian innings saw several key players dismissed, including Rishabh Pant (28), Ravindra Jadeja (17), and Jasprit Bumrah (0). Washington Sundar also contributed considerably,scoring a crucial half-century (50) off 146 balls,featuring just one four,before falling to Nathan Lyon. “Washington Sundar completed his half-century with just one four off 146 balls,” reported a cricket commentator.
Facing the threat of a follow-on, Reddy and Sundar forged a remarkable 127-run partnership for the eighth wicket, spanning 285 balls. This partnership became the second century stand for India in the innings, following the contributions of Virat Kohli and Yashaswi Jaiswal. It also stands as India’s second-highest eighth-wicket partnership on Australian soil, second only to the 129-run stand by Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh in Sydney in 2008.
Reddy’s performance also etched his name in the record books as he achieved the highest score by an Indian batsman at number 8 on Australian soil. India resumed their innings on day three at 164 for five, losing the wickets of Pant and Jadeja in the first session. Pant faced 37 balls for his 28 runs, while Jadeja scored 17 runs off 51 balls.
Australia’s bowling attack was led by Pat Cummins and Scott Boland,each claiming three wickets,while Nathan Lyon took two. At the close of play on day three, India were 358 for 9, leaving Australia needing 116 runs to match their first innings total. Nitish Reddy (105*) and Mohammad Siraj (2*) remained unbeaten at the crease.
This remarkable performance by Reddy highlights the rising talent within the Indian cricket team and promises an exciting future for the sport. His innings serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of Test cricket and the ability of young players to rise to the occasion on the biggest stage.
Reddy Rises: A Young Star’s Century in the Boxing Day Test
Nitish Kumar Reddy, a 21-year-old cricketer from Andhra Pradesh, stunned the cricketing world with a remarkable century in the Melbourne Test against Australia.His resilient knock on a challenging pitch not only rescued India from a precarious position but also etched his name in the record books. This interview delves deeper into Reddy’s performance and the meaning of his innings for Indian cricket.
A Century of Grit and Determination
Sarah Jones, World today News Senior Editor: Mr. Rahul Dravid, thank you for joining us. Reddy’s century was truly remarkable. Can you tell us about the circumstances surrounding his innings and what made it so special?
Rahul Dravid: Thank you for having me, Sarah. Nitish walked in under immense pressure. India was in a precarious position, having lost early wickets. the Australian bowlers were on fire, and the pitch was offering them plenty of assistance.Yet, Reddy showed exceptional composure. his innings was a masterclass in resilience and delicate strokeplay. He rotated the strike intelligently, found the gaps, and defended resolutely when needed.
A Partnership for the Ages
Sarah Jones: His partnership with Washington Sundar was crucial. Can you elaborate on the significance of that eighth-wicket stand?
Rahul Dravid: Absolutely, Sarah. Reddy and Sundar’s partnership was pivotal. They came together with India still trailing in the match,and they absorbed the pressure brilliantly. Their 127-run stand not only pulled India out of a hole but also frustrated Australia. Coming on a tricky pitch, it was a testament to their determination and batting skills. India’s second-highest eighth-wicket stand on Australian soil is no small feat, it speaks volumes about their display.
looking Ahead: A Bright Future
Sarah Jones: Reddy’s performance has generated a lot of excitement. What does this innings mean for the future of Indian cricket?
Rahul Dravid: This innings is certainly a sign of great things to come from Nitish Reddy. This performance will give him immense confidence going forward. He has shown that he has the temperament and the talent to thrive at the highest level. India has always been blessed with batting talent, and it seems another exciting player has emerged.