From a mischievous six-year-old to a Boxing Day Test centurion, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s journey is a testament to perseverance, family support, and dedication. On Saturday, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, the 21-year-old all-rounder etched his name into history by rescuing India with a brilliant century.
The Backbone of His Success: A Father’s Sacrifice
Nitish’s childhood coach, Kumar Swamy, credits the cricketer’s father, Mutyalu Reddy, as the real hero behind his success. Despite criticism from family members for leaving his job to support Nitish, Mutyalu remained steadfast. His sacrifices and relentless encouragement inspired Nitish to chase his dreams.
“I saw my father crying due to financial struggles,” Nitish shared. “That moment changed me. I gave my first jersey to him, and his happiness motivated me to work harder.”
Humble Beginnings and Dedication
Growing up in Madhurawada near Visakhapatnam, Nitish practiced tirelessly on local grounds. When his early training was deemed insufficient, his father took him to better facilities in Visakhapatnam, traveling long distances daily. This dedication paid off when Nitish earned his first district selection at 13 and later represented Andhra Pradesh at the state level.
Overcoming Obstacles
Nitish faced challenges, including injuries and early criticism of his potential. However, his coaches, including Swamy and Vikram Verma, believed in him. They worked on refining his skills, focusing on his bowling pace and batting techniques. Nitish’s hard work yielded results, with stellar performances in the Vijay Merchant Trophy and a gradual rise in domestic cricket.
From IPL to International Glory
Nitish’s IPL journey began in 2023 when Sunrisers Hyderabad secured him for ₹20 lakhs. Despite lucrative offers from other franchises, he chose to remain loyal, valuing the trust SRH placed in him. His humility and commitment reflect his grounded upbringing.
The youngster’s fitness transformation also played a crucial role. Inspired by interactions with Hardik Pandya at the National Cricket Academy, Nitish adopted a disciplined diet and fitness regimen, improving his overall game.
A Bright Future
Nitish’s ability to bowl brisk medium pace, clocking mid-130s regularly, combined with his batting prowess, fills a crucial role in Indian cricket. His all-around performance and mental toughness make him a valuable asset for the national team.
Leave a Reply