At number eight in Australia, Nitish Kumar Reddy becomes the youngest Indian centurion

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s historic century at No. 8 inspires hope for India in Melbourne Test

Melbourne: Nitish Kumar Reddy, the young Indian all-rounder, created history on Day 3 of the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The 21-year-old became the youngest Indian batter to score a Test century in Australia while batting at No. 8, with a composed and gritty knock of 105 not out.

Reddy reached his maiden Test century with a classy on-drive for a boundary off Scott Boland. The crowd of nearly 80,000 erupted in applause as Reddy celebrated by saluting the heavens. His father, present in the stands, joined thousands of Indian fans in celebrating the milestone.

A Remarkable Journey

Reddy’s inclusion in the Indian squad had raised eyebrows, but he has silenced critics with consistent performances. Selected as a seam-bowling all-rounder, Reddy has held his own with the bat despite limited success with the ball. His coach Gautam Gambhir backed him throughout the series, even choosing him over established players like Shubman Gill for the Boxing Day Test.

On Day 3, Reddy, along with Washington Sundar, rescued India from 221/7, putting on a record-breaking 129-run partnership for the eighth wicket. This effort equaled the highest eighth-wicket stand for India in Australia, set by Sachin Tendulkar and Harbhajan Singh in 2008.

Read More: Why Are Indian Players Wearing Black Armbands On Day 2 Of India-Australia Test Match In Melbourne?

Breaking Records

Reddy’s innings broke multiple records:

• Youngest Indian Centurion at No. 8 in Australia: At 21 years and 216 days, he trails only Sachin Tendulkar (18 years) and Rishabh Pant (21 years) for the youngest Indian centurions in Australia.
• Highest Score at No. 8 in Australia: His unbeaten 105 surpassed Anil Kumble’s 87 in Adelaide (2008).

A Knock of Patience and Class

Reddy displayed remarkable patience against Australia’s pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Scott Boland. His century came off 171 balls and included 10 fours and a six.

Despite losing partners at the other end, Reddy held firm, ensuring India avoided the follow-on and gave the team a fighting chance in the Test match.

The rain-affected day ended with Reddy unbeaten, his heroics offering hope to the Indian side as they aim to save the Test. His innings stands as a testament to determination and resilience, making him a rising star in Indian cricket.

We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to join. 

Like this post?
Register at One World News to never miss out on videos, celeb interviews, and best reads.