India’s young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy stole the show on Day 1 of the second Test between India and Australia with an audacious display of innovation and confidence. Facing Australia’s seasoned pacer Scott Boland, Nitish executed a jaw-dropping reverse sweep for a six, leaving fans and teammates in awe. Even captain Jasprit Bumrah couldn’t hide his amazement at the fearless stroke during the post-lunch session at the Adelaide Oval on Friday, December 6.
After winning the toss and opting to bat on a challenging pitch, India made significant changes to their lineup. Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Washington Sundar were brought in, replacing Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, and Washington Sundar. The innings began on a shaky note as Mitchell Starc struck with the first ball, trapping Yashasvi Jaiswal for a golden duck.
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Despite a promising 69-run partnership between KL Rahul and Shubman Gill, Starc’s fiery spell disrupted India’s progress, dismissing Rahul (37) and Virat Kohli (7) in quick succession. Nitish Kumar Reddy entered the scene with India struggling at 77/3. After Shubman Gill (31) and captain Rohit Sharma (2) fell cheaply, Nitish partnered briefly with Rishabh Pant (21) but soon ran out of support.
That’s an unreal shot from Nitish!
The reverse scoop for six off Boland 🔥#AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/BK7dB25DLy
— 7Cricket (@7Cricket) December 6, 2024
— Drizzyat12Kennyat8 (@45kennyat7PM) December 6, 2024
Undeterred, the young batter adopted an aggressive approach, showcasing his fearless temperament. On the second ball of the 42nd over, Nitish’s stunning reverse-scooped six off Boland’s length delivery became a highlight, drawing smiles and applause.
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Nitish top-scored for India with 42 off 54 balls, including three boundaries and three sixes. His partnerships with R Ashwin (32 runs) and Jasprit Bumrah (35 runs) added some much-needed runs. However, Mitchell Starc proved unstoppable, taking six wickets as India was bowled out for 180. Pat Cummins and Scott Boland claimed two wickets each, putting Australia in a commanding position.
While India’s total was below par, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s fearless approach provided a glimmer of hope and showcased the potential of the next generation of Indian cricket.
