Nitish Reddy Shines Bright in IPL 2024, Impresses Cricket Greats
In the recently concluded IPL 2024, young all-rounder Nitish Reddy made sure the cricketing world took notice of his exceptional talent. The 21-year-old Andhra star, who idolizes Virat Kohli, showcased his all-round skills on the big stage, leaving veterans like Mohammad Kaif highly impressed.
Signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023, Reddy’s opportunities were limited that year. However, a change in management and leadership in 2024 worked wonders for the promising youngster. Reddy announced his arrival, scoring 303 runs and taking three wickets in the tournament, making his presence felt in the star-studded overseas line-up.
Backing from Skipper Cummins Pays Off
Skipper Pat Cummins and the team management backed Reddy to shoulder the tough responsibilities of finishing the innings with the bat and bowling crucial overs, and the youngster didn’t disappoint. Reddy grabbed the limelight in the group stage match against Rajasthan Royals, where he smashed a 42-ball 76, laced with eight sixes.
“Obviously, being an all-rounder, it’s a huge responsibility because we have to make the team play better in batting, bowling and fielding – we have to do the three aspects. We are under pressure, and I like playing in pressure situations. I want to be part of the pressure situations as it helps me perform better,” Reddy shared.
Inspiration from All-Rounders and Idol Kohli
Reddy, who initially started as a pure batter, gradually realized the need to develop his bowling skills to stand out. Inspired by all-rounders like Ben Stokes and Hardik Pandya, the young superstar worked tirelessly to become a genuine all-rounder, a role that brings immense responsibility and pressure.
The IPL 2024 season also saw a special moment for Reddy when he received a surprise acknowledgment from his idol, Virat Kohli. After a match against Kohli’s RCB, the former India skipper greeted Reddy, boosting the youngster’s morale and driving him to perform even better.
Despite the heartbreaking defeat in the final against Kolkata Knight Riders on his 21st birthday, Reddy’s impressive performances in IPL 2024 have earned him a maiden India call-up for the upcoming Zimbabwe tour. Although an injury ruled him out at the last moment, the young all-rounder remains focused on regaining fitness and making the most of the next opportunity that comes his way.
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