BGT 2024-25: How crucial was Reddy and Sundar’s 127-run stand for India’s fightback in Melbourne?
Xtra Time Web Desk: India all-rounder Washington Sundar and debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy engineered a remarkable turnaround on Day 3 of the Melbourne Test against Australia, stitching together a 127-run partnership for the eighth wicket. Their gritty stand rescued India from a perilous position and kept their hopes alive in the Boxing Day Test.
India found themselves in deep trouble at 191 for six after Rishabh Pant’s dismissal for 28 in the 56th over. The situation worsened when Ravindra Jadeja was trapped lbw by Nathan Lyon, reducing India to 221 for seven and trailing by 253 runs. Enter Sundar and Reddy, who absorbed the pressure and steadied the innings with resilience and determination.
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Speaking at the end of the day, Sundar credited head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma for fostering a fighting mindset within the team. "The intent was definitely to fight no matter what the situation is," Sundar said. "Me and Nitish kept telling each other that we’re going to fight no matter what. The message from the dressing room was clear: spend time in the middle, and the runs will come as they tire."
Sundar, who eventually fell after scoring a crucial 59, highlighted the trust placed in him by Gambhir and batting coach Abhishek Nair. "Gauti Bhai has trusted me a lot and always emphasized how important my batting skill set is for the team. The support from the coaching staff has been immense, especially tactically," he added.
By the time Sundar was dismissed, India had climbed to 348 for eight, reducing the deficit to 126 runs. The partnership was not only pivotal but also historic, becoming India’s second-highest eighth-wicket stand in Australia, surpassing the 107-run effort by Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh in 2008.
Reddy’s innings was particularly noteworthy. The young batter, fresh off an impressive IPL 2024 season and making his mark in his debut Test series, scored a maiden century. His composed knock of 105 off 171 balls showcased his temperament and skill. Sundar played the perfect foil, anchoring the innings while Reddy counterattacked with controlled aggression.
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The duo’s efforts not only narrowed Australia’s lead but also showcased India’s resilience under pressure. Sundar’s innings reaffirmed his value as a dependable all-rounder, while Reddy’s heroics solidified his status as a rising star in Indian cricket. Together, they embodied the team’s fighting spirit and ensured India remained in contention in the tightly contested Test.
