Nitish Kumar Reddy Relishes Moment with Virat Kohli After Maiden Test Century
India’s all-rounder, Nitish Kumar Reddy, recently shared a touching moment he experienced during the fourth Test against Australia in Melbourne. Having achieved his first Test century, Reddy expressed his long-standing admiration for star batsman Virat Kohli and described how it felt to receive praise from him.
On Day 3 of the Test, Reddy scored an impressive 114 runs off 189 balls, hitting 11 fours and one six. His performance played a crucial role in helping India recover from a significant first-innings deficit. After completing his century, the 21-year-old was delighted to get a warm acknowledgment from Kohli, who told him that his innings brought the team back into the match.
Reflecting on this special moment, Reddy said, “Growing up, I always looked up to Virat bhai as my idol. Finally playing alongside him and being appreciated after my hundred was just incredible. He said, ‘You really played well, you got the team back in the game,’ and that made me so happy.”
The excitement did not stop there, as Reddy also recalled the electric atmosphere in the stadium towards the end of the day. He highlighted a thrilling moment when Mohammed Siraj, known more for his bowling, defended the last ball of the over while Reddy was on the brink of his century.
"The crowd went wild when Siraj defended that last ball," Reddy said. "Even my century didn’t feel as loud. I owe him so much for helping me get to 100."
India fans held their breaths when two crucial players, Washington Sundar and Jasprit Bumrah, fell just before Reddy could complete his century. However, after Siraj faced three balls without getting out, Reddy was able to take the strike again and hit a beautiful lofted drive off Scott Boland to reach his milestone. The young all-rounder couldn’t contain his joy and celebrated exuberantly with Siraj on the field.
This match has surely created lasting memories for Reddy as he continues his journey in international cricket, inspired by his childhood idol.
