Xtra Time Web Desk: Before the commencement of the IPL 2024, Nitish Kumar Reddy remained relatively unknown in the Indian cricketing scene. Despite playing just two matches for Hyderabad in the previous season, he hadn’t yet made a significant impact that would instil fear in opponents. His IPL 2023 performance didn’t help his case either, as he remained unimpressive, failing to make an impact with neither bat nor ball, conceding 54 runs in five overs without taking a wicket.
However, despite his lacklustre performance, the SRH team management retained their faith in him. And Reddy, the young cricketer, proved them right by stepping up when it was needed the most. He showcased his exceptional abilities during a quick-fire innings of 14 runs against Chennai Super Kings on 5th April, although he didn’t bowl in that particular game. But it was in the match against Punjab Kinga at Mohali on 9th April, where he truly demonstrated his potential as a genuine all-rounder.
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Initially struggling to find his rhythm, Reddy managed only 14 runs off his first 17 balls. However, he shifted gears dramatically, smashing Harpreet Brar for two fours and a six in the 11th over. From then on, there was no looking back. Reddy reached his maiden IPL fifty off just 32 balls, sealing it with a massive six over mid-wicket off Brar. With five sixes and four fours to his name, the 20-year-old accelerated to 64 runs off 37 balls before being dismissed by Arshdeep Singh. His outstanding performance earned him the well-deserved title of Player of the Match, especially after SRH clinched a nail-biting victory by a mere two runs. Additionally, he also played a pivotal role with the ball, dismissing Jitesh Sharma at a crucial moment in the game.
Once in the company of MS Dhoni, Reddy’s IPL journey began
Reddy’s association with Hyderabad in the IPL wasn’t his inaugural stint in the tournament. In 2021, it was MS Dhoni’s Chennai that initially showed faith in him by selecting him as a net bowler. Reddy remained part of the five-time champions when the second leg of that season was relocated from India to UAE.
Prior to this opportunity, Reddy’s cricketing experience had been limited to a few first-class and List A matches. However, instead of being daunted by the challenge, he embraced it and made valuable contributions. With one century and seven half-centuries to his credit, Nitish showcased his capabilities on the domestic circuit.
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In the realm of first-class cricket, Nitish boasts three four-wicket hauls and two five-wicket hauls from 17 matches. Now, following his pivotal role for Hyderabad against Punjab, this emerging all-rounder appears to have a promising future ahead of him.