As fans stream into the Melbourne Cricket Ground on a cloudy fourth day, all eyes are on one man: Nitish Kumar Reddy. The 23-year-old’s defiant unbeaten 105 on Day 3 has given India a glimmer of hope in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. Batting at No. 8, Reddy’s remarkable resilience has kept the match alive when an innings defeat looked inevitable.
Reddy’s Rearguard Action
Walking in at a precarious 186-6 in reply to Australia’s imposing 474, Reddy showed maturity beyond his years. As wickets fell around him, the left-hander dug in, blunting the Australian attack with unwavering concentration. His staunch 198-ball vigil has so far yielded 14 boundaries and brought India within 116 runs of Australia’s total.
“He showed great composure for someone so young and in only his third Test. To score a century from No. 8 in these circumstances is truly special.”
– VVS Laxman, former India batsman
Farming the Strike
With only Mohammed Siraj for company, Reddy will look to farm the strike on the fourth morning. His ability to manipulate the field and pick up singles could prove crucial in whittling down the deficit. If he can continue to frustrate the Australian bowlers, India’s slim hopes of scrapping out a draw or even chasing an unlikely win will grow.
A Knock to Remember
Regardless of the match outcome, Reddy’s innings will be remembered as one of the gutsiest knocks by an Indian in recent memory. To notch a maiden Test century in just his third match, that too from No. 8 and in the face of a huge deficit, speaks volumes of his skill and temperament. It seems a star has been born at the MCG this Boxing Day.
- 105* – Reddy’s score, the highest by an Indian No. 8 in Australia
- 198 – The number of balls Reddy has faced so far
- 14 – Boundaries hit by Reddy in his fighting knock
Laxman Lauds Effort
Former India batsman VVS Laxman, no stranger himself to rearguard actions, was effusive in his praise for Reddy. “To show such composure under pressure in only his third Test speaks volumes of his mental fortitude. This boy is here to stay,” Laxman said on the host broadcaster.
Hazlewood Wary
Australia quick Josh Hazlewood admitted Reddy’s resistance had made the Aussies rethink their plans. “Credit to him, he really dug in and made us work hard. We’ll need to come up with something special to dislodge him early tomorrow. He’s certainly given India some hope,” Hazlewood said.
As the MCG faithful settle in for an intriguing fourth day, one thing is certain: the first hour will be crucial. If Reddy can weather the early storm from the fresh Australian bowlers, India’s hopes of ending 2024 on a high will soar. A fascinating day awaits!
