Melbourne, Australia: The Melbourne Cricket Ground turned into a theater of emotions on December 28, 2024, as Nitish Kumar Reddy, the young Indian cricketer, scored his maiden Test century in a style befitting a cinematic blockbuster. The tense yet triumphant moment, watched by a packed stadium and millions back home, marked the emergence of a new cricketing star.
Batting at 99 not out, Nitish faced Scott Boland in the 115th over. A full delivery aimed at the stumps was met with a majestic lofted shot over mid-on, bringing up his first Test hundred. The crowd erupted in applause, as did his family seated in the stands—his father Mutyalu, mother Manasa, and sister Tejaswi—each overwhelmed with joy and gratitude.
Mutyalu, who left a secure government job in 2016 to nurture Nitish’s cricketing dreams, wept openly, his hands folded in prayer. Back in India, Nitish’s coaches, Nirmal Kumar and CD Thomson, watched with pride as their protégé achieved a milestone they had envisioned for years.
A Celebration of Hard Work and Sacrifice
Nitish’s hundred was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to his family’s sacrifices. Mutyalu’s decision to prioritize Nitish’s cricket career over his own security, coupled with the unwavering support of his mother and sister, was crucial in shaping his journey.
The young cricketer’s exuberant Bahubali-style celebration on reaching the century, following his Pushpa-inspired half-century celebration, reflected his joy and confidence. Nitish’s 114-run innings, built under immense pressure and against top-class Australian bowlers like Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon, showcased his maturity and skill.
Coaches and Mentors Speak
Nirmal Kumar, who coached Nitish through his formative years, praised the batter’s ability to handle pressure and his team-first mentality. “He wasn’t chasing personal milestones but always focused on scoring for the team,” Nirmal said.
Thomson, who trained Nitish in Hyderabad and later supported him from the USA, lauded his technical finesse and temperament. “He’s always been an eager learner, adapting quickly to advice and challenges. His knock perfectly illustrated the four pillars of cricket—training, technique, tactical awareness, and temperament.”
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
Nitish’s journey from the residential academies of the Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) to the international stage is a story of resilience and determination. Identified early as a promising talent by former Indian selector MSK Prasad, Nitish steadily climbed the ranks, refining his game with every opportunity.
His time with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL further enhanced his self-belief, teaching him the importance of mental toughness and adaptability. “The exposure to top players and their training methods brought a positive change in his approach,” Thomson noted.
A Bright Future Ahead
As Nitish celebrated his century in front of 70,000 cheering fans at the MCG, it was evident that this was just the beginning of an illustrious career. His ability to thrive under pressure, coupled with his hunger for improvement, makes him a valuable asset for Indian cricket.
December 28, 2024, will forever be etched in the memories of Nitish’s family, mentors, and fans—a day when dedication and dreams came together to create history. For Nitish Kumar Reddy, the boy who dared to dream big, the century at Melbourne is a stepping stone to even greater heights.
