BGT 2024-25: Nitish Reddy’s century celebration decoded, batter pays tribute to India
Xtra Time Web Desk: Nitish Kumar Reddy etched his name into history at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 28, scoring his maiden Test century during the fourth Test between India and Australia. While the milestone was a defining moment in his career, it was his heartfelt celebration that resonated deeply with fans.
Upon reaching the landmark, Nitish knelt down, planted his bat into the ground, rested his helmet on it, and pointed towards the sky with closed eyes, soaking in the applause. He then rose, spread his arms wide, and embraced teammate Mohammad Siraj. Explaining the symbolism of his celebration, Nitish said, "After my hundred, I planted my bat - keeping the helmet - so there is an Indian flag and saluting the flag. The biggest motivation is playing for the country, and it was memorable."
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— BCCI (@BCCI) December 28, 2024
The fight, the joy, the celebration, the emotions ft. Melbourne heroes Nitish Kumar Reddy & Washington Sundar ???????? - By @RajalArora #TeamIndia | #AUSvIND | @NKReddy07 | @Sundarwashi5
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The emotional significance of the moment extended beyond the field, as Nitish spotted his father wiping away tears in the stands. Reflecting on the occasion, Nitish shared, "I saw my father crying, I dreamt about making him proud."
Nitish’s road to the century was far from easy. He was stuck in the 90s for an extended period, and India lost two quick wickets—Washington Sundar and Jasprit Bumrah—adding to the pressure. Nitish appeared tense, visibly distressed as wickets fell around him. The anxiety peaked when he survived a close LBW call from Scott Boland, a moment that left fans and his father in the stands holding their breath.
Acknowledging Siraj’s support during the tense phase, Nitish said, "You know, what mentality Siraj carries, he was like 'I will do it' - I was boosted up, and I was so happy." Siraj’s composure allowed Nitish to hold his nerve, and he eventually reached the milestone with a boundary off Boland, bringing up his century in 171 balls.
Who's chopping onions? ????
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) December 28, 2024
Well done, #NitishKumarReddy ????????????#AUSvINDOnStar ???? 4th Test, Day 4 | SUN, 29th DEC, 4:30 AM | #ToughestRivalry #BorderGavaskarTrophy pic.twitter.com/yXOrZZwtax
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The achievement made Nitish the 10th Indian batter to score a century in a Boxing Day Test and the third-youngest Indian to do so in Australia. His father’s emotional reaction in the stands symbolized the years of sacrifice that had gone into this success.
For Nitish, the century was more than just a personal triumph—it was a tribute to his family’s support and a salute to his nation.
