Gavaskar issues ‘thank you Indian cricket for granted’ warning to Nitish Reddy after blistering MCG century

On By Littum

Nitish Kumar Reddy’s maiden Test century in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) has been one of the standout moments for the Indian team in the series so far. The 21-year-old’s resilient unbeaten knock of 105 runs off 176 balls, including 10 boundaries and a six, came at a critical time when India were in danger of being bowled out for under 250 runs after a batting order collapsed.

India's Nitish Kumar Reddy acknowledged the crowd as he walked off the field after poor light stopped play during play on the third day of the fourth cricket Test (AP)
India’s Nitish Kumar Reddy acknowledged the crowd as he walked off the field after poor light stopped play during play on the third day of the fourth cricket Test (AP)

Reddy’s partnership with Washington Sundar, who contributed a well-made 50, turned the tide for India. At a time when India were teetering at 7-231, the situation seemed precarious. However, Reddy stood firm; at one point he was left stranded on 99, with Mohammed Siraj left to face three balls against Pat Cummins.

In a nervous moment, Siraj saw off the threat and Reddy capitalized by hitting a boundary off Scott Boland to complete his century. Reddy’s family members, especially his father, were in tears as they applauded the player from the stands.

Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar praised the performance of the young batsman.

“This is the first Test hundred and he is going to score many more in the near future. I expect to see him among the runs in the future. He is a star in Indian cricket,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports.

Gavaskar shows caution

However, Gavaskar also issued a warning to Reddy. He reminded the young cricketer of the sacrifices his father and other members of his family had made to help him reach this point.

“But he will have to remember the sacrifices made by his father and other members of the family. Nitish is here because of Indian cricket and he will have to make sure that he does not take Indian cricket for granted. If he stays true to himself, a successful career lies ahead of him,” Gavaskar added, stressing the importance of humility and hard work.

Reddy’s knock has certainly established him as one of the rising stars of Indian cricket and when play resumes on Sunday morning, he will aim to continue to drive the strike and add important runs to the board.