Nitish Kumar Reddy Scores Maiden Test Century at MCG, Emotions Run High
21-Year-Old All-Rounder's Century Sparks Joy for Family and Fans During Border-Gavaskar Trophy
India's young all-rounder, Nitish Kumar Reddy, achieved his maiden Test century under the spotlight during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy's fourth Test match against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on December 28, 2024. Coming to bat with India reeling at 191 for 6, Reddy's remarkable knock of 105 not out played a pivotal role, guiding his team to 358 for 9 at the end of the day's play.
With the pressure mounting, Reddy formed a valuable 127-run partnership with Washington Sundar, who scored 50. Their collaboration was instrumental as Reddy countered Australia’s first-innings total of 474, showcasing remarkable composure and skill, especially as he had only played three Tests prior.
When Reddy stepped onto the field, expectations were high, but he had the invaluable support of his father, Mutyala Reddy, who watched proudly from the stands. The emotional moment became viral as footage captured his father praying fervently and weeping with joy upon his son's success. "My father left his job for me, and there have been many sacrifices behind my story," Reddy recounted, reflecting on the challenges his family had faced. "I saw him crying because of the financial problems, so I got serious about my cricket."
Reddy's century, which he brought up with a stylish boundary off Scott Boland, included 10 fours and one six. His celebration was heartfelt; after reaching the milestone, he knelt and looked skyward, fully aware of the meaning of this accomplishment. His father, unable to contain his emotions, joined the celebrating Indian fans. "For our family, it’s a special day, and we cannot forget this day in our lives," Mutyala Reddy expressed to former Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist.
At the crease, with India still trailing by 116 runs, Reddy had to navigate through some tense moments. Just before scoring his hundred, he faced challenges as Australia’s bowlers, led by Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, put him under pressure. At one point, Reddy was on 97 when Sundar was dismissed, leaving him to confront the prospect of last-wicket challenges with Mohammed Siraj up next.
Reddy’s perseverance was commendable; he chose to retain the strike instead of taking singles, demonstrating his determination to reach the three-figure mark. The dramatic moment came when Siraj successfully defended three deliveries, and Reddy finally drove Boland over the bowler’s head for the boundary he so desperately sought.
Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar hailed Reddy’s knock as "one of the greatest for India in Test cricket," encapsulating the match's tension and the importance of the moment. Throughout the first three Tests of the series, Reddy had shown flashes of brilliance with cameo scores, but this century catapulted him to prominence, making him the standout performer for India on this Australian tour.
"He has been performing well since his age-group days, and now at the international level, it is truly special," his father said, emotion evident as he described watching his son take strides on the international stage. Observing Reddy’s hard-earned success evoked memories of his sacrifices.
With India ending the day at 358 for 9 and great fights still to come, Reddy's century brings hope for the visitors as they aim for redemption against Australia. Reddy now leads India's batting lineup, having accumulated 284 runs at this tour alone, showcasing his potential as he faces the world’s best.
Given the stakes of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where the series is currently tied 1-1, Reddy’s performance not only underscored his individual talent but also served as motivation for his teammates, potentially guiding them toward a remarkable comeback.
Hence, as the dust settles on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s name is etched as one of the latest entries to the list of cricketing greats, fondly remembered for his resolve, skill, and the emotional support of family. His maiden century is a tale of dreams fulfilled, amid tears of joy, signaling the promising future of Indian cricket at large.
