Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta has showered praise on Nitish Kumar Reddy after the young all-rounder played another impactful role in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s impressive 33-run victory over Punjab Kings in IPL 2026. Dasgupta even went on to describe Nitish as the only “proper all-rounder” currently playing in the tournament.

Reddy once again delivered with both bat and ball at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. The youngster provided an important breakthrough during the powerplay by dismissing Prabhsimran Singh early in Punjab’s chase, helping SRH tighten their grip on the contest from the outset.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo, Deep Dasgupta highlighted how valuable genuine all-rounders remain in modern T20 cricket, especially in the era of the Impact Player rule. “That’s a very valid point, how we perceive the impact of the all-rounder. That is changing, and I hope that keeps changing,” Dasgupta said.

WATCH – Yuzvendra Chahal Caught In Fresh Vaping Storm After Viral Flight Video

“What is heartening to see is even though there is this Impact Player option, he has kind of found a niche for himself as an all-rounder. We don’t get to see too many all-rounders in this tournament. I think Nitish is the only proper all-rounder,” he added.

Dasgupta praised Nitish’s ability to contribute consistently in both departments, calling him a rare asset in the IPL. “He bats in the middle order and bowls three to four overs more often than not. So yes, he is a proper all-rounder,” he explained.

Sunrisers Hyderabad produced a complete team performance against Punjab Kings, posting a massive 235/4 before restricting the visitors to 202/7. Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen starred with brilliant half-centuries, while Nitish chipped in with a crucial unbeaten 29 off just 13 deliveries to provide a strong finish.

ALSO READ: Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh Lead Tributes For Amanpreet Singh Gill

Dasgupta also pointed out that Nitish’s presence gives SRH the flexibility to balance both batting depth and bowling options, something many teams struggle to achieve in high-scoring T20 cricket. “If you start with five bowlers, you almost end up having nine batting options. That’s where someone like Nitish becomes so important because you know he can comfortably give you four overs as well,” Dasgupta concluded.