New Delhi: India has a new hero — Nitish Kumar Reddy. The 21-year-old cricketer created history with a challenging maiden century as he was cheered on by a large crowd of Indian supporters at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Nitish showed remarkable grit and determination as he reached the milestone on 172 balls with 10 fours and one six as he worked to get India back into the fourth Test against Australia.
It’s Nitish’s resilience coupled with his love and admiration for the sport. Virat Kohliwhich helped him overcome financial obstacles and realize his dream of playing for the team indian team.
Nitish was just 12 years old when his father Mutyala Reddy introduced him to former India wicketkeeper and former selector MSK Prasad. Having witnessed his son’s majestic batting at the MCG, Mutyala sought Prasad’s guidance to shape Nitish’s cricketing career.
Prasad, who represents Andhra Pradesh in domestic cricket, assessed Nitish by asking him a few questions and then observing his presence in the nets. The young batsman impressed with his expert stroke play and disciplined wicket-to-wicket bowling.
Recognizing his talent, Prasad introduced Nitish to the Andhra cricket management, who decided to groom the prodigy. The association provides financial support with a monthly investment of Rs 15,000 and caters to his cricketing and educational needs.
Nitish played a key role on Saturday by putting up a 127-run partnership with Washington Sundar (50) to rescue India from a shaky 221/7. The partnership narrowly missed India’s highest eight-wicket haul against Australia, set by Harbhajan Singh and Sachin Tendulkar in 2008.
“This is one of the happiest moments for Nitish, his family and me. The entire country and the Andhra cricket fraternity are very proud of this kid. It’s a great achievement. He comes from humble beginnings, Step by step, he overcame the odds and now he is a superstar, Nitish has worked incredibly hard to reach this level and I salute his family who have made huge sacrifices to support him at Prasad. Said this in an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com.
Nitish’s moment of brilliance came in the 99th over when he hit a lofty knock and then completed his century with a graceful drive to the boundary after a tense session.
The MCG erupted in deafening cheers, including from his father in the stands, who was seen praying for his son’s success.
“Andhra Cricket played a big role in his upbringing. Ever since his father brought him to me, I knew this boy was destined for great things on the bigger stage. Andhra Cricket invested Rs 15,000 in him every month , until he reached a certain level when he came to me, they took care of his cricket and education.
“This money was just for Nitish. We knew this guy was talented and would reach a certain level. He never looked back. A keen learner, a silent assassin, a guy who loved the game, that’s what he did Nitish is my definition of him,” he added.
Nitish: India looking for fast bowling all-rounder
Nitish Kumar Nitish ends India’s long wait for a fast bowling all-rounder? While the issue is still being debated, MSK Prasad believes Nitish has the potential to fill the gap but it will take time and hard work to solidify his place in the team. India had a promising all-rounder like Hardik Pandya, but injuries limited his Test career.
“As for his batting, he is absolutely right. However, his bowling still has a lot of work to do but I am sure he will improve. The confidence he has gained after hitting a century at the MCG is unparalleled. This achievement is certainly It will also motivate him to perform well in bowling,” Prasad said.
