Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @nitish_kumar_reddy_7
Former BCCI selector MSK Prasad shared the story of how he discovered Nitish Kumar Reddy after the young cricketer scored his maiden Test century against Australia in the fourth Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Saturday.
Playing in just his fourth Test, Reddy displayed remarkable determination and resilience, helping India recover to a respectable position in the match.
Coming in at 191/6 following the dismissal of Rishabh Pant, Reddy steadied the innings with a crucial 127-run partnership for the eighth wicket alongside Washington Sundar, who contributed a gritty 162-ball 50. At stumps on Day 3, India stood at 358/9, with Reddy unbeaten on 105. The team trails by 116 runs.
Prasad recounted the moment Reddy’s father sought his help to nurture the youngster’s cricketing potential. “I think it’s 10 years back when I was the director for Andhra Cricket. Before becoming a national selector, I was the director for Andhra Cricket. In 2013-14, we started residential academies. We identified players who could be given free food, accommodation, clothing, coaching, and everything else. The idea was to shape those academies, and through academies, we wanted to groom them through a systematic process. Nitish was one guy whom we have picked for under-14 academy,” Prasad told HT.
Prasad recalled Reddy’s father’s plea and his first impression of the player: “And just when his father came and told me that he is going through a little bit of a tough time in his life, he felt that his son was capable of playing at the next level. So, he asked me to have a look at him.
“I just saw a few balls and realised this kid has huge potential. So, we put him in an under-14 academy. So, he has been groomed through that systematic process from under-16 to under-19s. And eventually, by 21, we are now seeing him representing India and getting a century for India,”
Prasad also credited the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) for supporting Reddy’s growth. The ACA provided financial assistance and looked after his cricketing and educational needs, ensuring his development.
Despite having only 26 first-class matches under his belt, Reddy has risen to the occasion, impressing Prasad with his performance. “I have no words to express my happiness. Before coming into this series, he played a few first-class games. But compared to his stats, how he enhanced or elevated his performance, especially to this level, is unbelievable. Getting a Test century is that too against four quality bowlers,” Prasad said.
As Day 4 approaches, much will depend on Reddy’s ability to minimize the deficit with last-man Mohammed Siraj at the crease. Siraj’s batting skills may also be put to the test as India looks to close the gap.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
