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NEW DELHI: When Nitish Kumar Reddy lofted Scott Boland’s full delivery for straight drive to bring up his maiden Test century, former India head coach Ravi Shastri, former all-rounder Irfan Pathan and TV presenter Jatin Sapru erupted in sheer elation in the commentary box.
Their celebration reflected the significance of the young batter’s hundred for India, coming at a critical juncture when the visitors were on the backfoot on the third day of the fourth Test against Australia at the MCG.
The moment Reddy reached his century became the defining moment of the series for India. He balanced his helmet with the bat, took a knee, and expressed heartfelt gratitude towards the Indian dugout, which rose in a standing ovation to celebrate his achievement.
In the stands near the boundary, Reddy’s father couldn’t hold back his emotions, breaking down in tears as he watched his son achieve this remarkable milestone.
“Yeh aankon mein aansoo wala 100 hai, sirf pitaji ka nahi mere khyal pura crowd jo yahan pe hai sabke aankh mein aansu honge,” (This is a tearful moment, not just for his Dad, but I believe everyone in the crowd here will have tears in their eyes) Shastri said.
Reddy’s century proved pivotal in rescuing India from a precarious position while delivering a severe blow to Australia’s chances of securing a Boxing Day Test victory.
His unbeaten 105 guided India to 358 for nine, still trailing Australia’s first-innings total of 474 by 116 runs, as rain brought an early close to the third day’s play.
Reddy’s fighting spirit, coupled with the crucial 127-run partnership he forged with Washington Sundar (50 off 162 balls), marked a decisive turning point for the visitors.
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