Cricket

Team India's Bold Move: Nitish Kumar Reddy's Rise in the T20I SeriesFormer Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has lauded Team India's decision to promote Nitish Kumar Reddy in the batting order ahead of Hardik Pandya in the ongoing T20I series against Bangladesh. Reddy, a promising young all-rounder, has impressed with his aggressive batting and has been given the opportunity to showcase his skills at the highest level.Chopra believes that the management's decision to fast-track Reddy into the squad is a testament to his potential. "Nitish Kumar Reddy and Hardik Pandya - this is a fantastic thing the Indian team is trying to do at the moment... Nitish Reddy has been fast-tracked with the thinking that he should be played as much as possible," Chopra stated.While acknowledging Reddy's batting prowess, Chopra also highlighted the need for him to improve his bowling abilities. "He has been made to bat at No. 4 and given full overs... I would still say he is slightly underprepared in bowling because if you see his and Hardik's bowling, Hardik is a much-refined version," Chopra noted.Despite his bowling limitations, Chopra praised Reddy's aggressive batting style and his ability to hit sixes with ease. "However, Nitish Kumar Reddy has the ability with the bat. There is no doubt about that as he hits sixes while standing in his position... He batted well once he got a chance to open his arms," Chopra said, referring to Reddy's performance in Delhi.Chopra expressed optimism about Reddy's future performances, particularly in the upcoming Hyderabad match, where the player will be familiar with the venue from his IPL experience. "His bowling will also suit here as the side boundaries are big. So, Nitish Kumar Reddy is that shining bright prospect for Team India," Chopra concluded.Reddy's inclusion in the team alongside Pandya is a bold move by the Indian management, but it is a move that could pay dividends in the long run. If Reddy can continue to develop his bowling skills and maintain his aggressive batting approach, he has the potential to become a valuable asset to the Indian team in the future.

India's Predicted XI for the third T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad on Saturday is expected to undergo significant changes, as the hosts have already secured the series victory with a 2-0 lead.The young Indian team has showcased promising performances, with Nitish Kumar Reddy emerging as a standout performer in the second T20I. His all-round abilities, including a match-winning knock and impressive bowling, have impressed the team management. Mayank Yadav's express pace has also earned him a spot as a reserve bowler for the upcoming New Zealand Tests.However, concerns remain over Sanju Samson's form, as he has failed to make a substantial impact in the series. The third T20I provides him with an opportunity to prove his worth and boost his chances of future selection.Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are likely to open the batting for India once again. Abhishek has shown glimpses of form, but the onus will be on Sanju to find his rhythm. A strong performance in the third T20I could be crucial for his confidence.Suryakumar Yadav will continue to lead the side, with Riyan Parag, Rinku Singh, and Nitish Kumar Reddy forming the middle order. This young batting core will be eager to make a statement and solidify their positions in the team.Hardik Pandya and Washington Sundar are expected to play as all-rounders. Hardik's impressive performances with both bat and ball have been a major asset for India.In the bowling department, Harshit Rana is likely to make his debut, joining Ravi Bishnoi and Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI. Mayank Yadav is expected to be rested for the final match.

Mayank Yadav and Nitish Kumar Reddy, the two debutants in India's T20I squad, made an impressive start to their international careers in the first match against Bangladesh. Despite initial nerves, they credited skipper Suryakumar Yadav for providing them with calming words and support.Mayank, a 21-year-old pace bowler, made his debut after recovering from an abdominal strain. He impressed with figures of 1/21 in his four overs. Nitish, also 21, made an impact with an unbeaten 16 off 15 balls, helping India secure a seven-wicket victory.Suryakumar's leadership played a crucial role in easing the debutants' nerves. "He gives you freedom," said Mayank. "He told me to do what I feel best, which is important for any fast bowler, especially when making your debut."Nitish added, "He is very calm and cool. He gave us the license to play without pressure, which is what any youngster would want from their captain."Mayank expressed his emotions about making his debut after a long injury layoff. "It's a great moment because I am coming from an injury. I was a bit nervous, but I told myself not to stress."He credited bowling coach Morne Morkel for shaping his development. "I know him very well, and it's easy for me to work with him. He knows what's best for me."Nitish was equally satisfied with his debut performance. "It's a dream-come-true moment for any cricketer in India. There was nervousness, but I enjoyed it. It was a proud moment for me and my family."The second T20I of the three-match series will be played in New Delhi on Wednesday. The debutants' performances have added depth to India's squad and raised expectations for the upcoming matches.

Mayank Yadav and Nitish Kumar Reddy Elevate to Capped Status Ahead of IPL 2025Pace sensation Mayank Yadav and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy have made their mark on the international stage, earning their T20I debuts for India against Bangladesh. This elevation comes after their impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where they showcased their exceptional skills.Yadav, 22, has been a standout performer for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL, consistently delivering blistering deliveries exceeding 150 kilometers per hour. His raw pace and accuracy have caught the attention of both fans and experts alike.Reddy, on the other hand, has made a significant impact in the star-studded Sunrisers Hyderabad lineup. The right-hander has displayed explosive batting prowess, notably hammering a 42-ball 76 against Rajasthan Royals, featuring eight towering sixes. He concluded the season with an impressive 303 runs.Their elevation to the international stage adds further value to their already impressive IPL credentials. As capped players, Yadav and Reddy are likely to attract significant attention during the upcoming IPL retention and auction process. Franchises will be eager to secure their services, recognizing their potential as key assets for the next year's tournament.The India debuts for both players also have financial implications. As capped players, they are now eligible for a higher salary if retained by their respective franchises. The designated amount for retaining an uncapped player is Rs 4 crore, but capped players can command a higher fee.The deadline for franchises to submit their final list of retained players is October 31, 2024. According to the new retention rules, a franchise can retain a total of six players from their existing squad. This can be either via retention or by using the Right to Match (RTM) option. The six retentions/RTM's can have a maximum of five capped players (Indian and overseas) and a maximum of two uncapped players.With the increased auction purse of Rs 120 crore for each team, there will be a reduction in the cost of retaining players. However, the first three retentions will still come at a significant cost, with the subsequent fourth and fifth retentions further reducing the franchise purse.

India's T20I team is undergoing a transition phase following the retirement of senior players Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravindra Jadeja. Under the captaincy of Suryakumar Yadav, the team is expected to continue its dominance in the shortest format.The upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh has brought several newcomers into the spotlight. Mayank Yadav, a fast bowler who impressed with his express deliveries for Lucknow Super Giants, is one of the most talked-about players. Harshit Rana and Nitish Kumar Reddy are two other uncapped players who have been included in the squad.Former India opener Aakash Chopra believes that these players will be closely watched. He suggests that Mayank Yadav, Harshit Rana, and Arshdeep Singh should all be included in the playing XI for the first T20I."Ideally, he [Mayank Yadav] should be playing. For him to play, I see three fast bowlers playing because, in the pecking order, it's Arshdeep, Harshit Rana, and Mayank Yadav. I see Mayank Yadav playing, all three fast bowlers. Unleash some pace," Chopra said.India's Predicted XI vs Bangladesh 1st T20I:1. Abhishek Sharma2. Sanju Samson (wk)3. Suryakumar Yadav (C)4. Riyan Parag5. Rinku Singh6. Hardik Pandya7. Washington Sundar8. Ravi Bishnoi9. Arshdeep Singh10. Harshit Rana11. Mayank Yadav

Nitish Kumar Reddy, the rising star of Sunrisers Hyderabad, has emerged as a formidable all-rounder in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His impressive performance in the 2024 season has not only solidified his position within the franchise but has also garnered recognition from cricketing legends.Reddy's batting prowess was evident throughout the tournament, as he amassed 303 runs in 13 matches. His ability to adapt to different situations and contribute with both power-hitting and sensible batting showcased his versatility. Moreover, his bowling contributions, which yielded three wickets, further highlighted his all-round capabilities.Beyond his on-field achievements, Reddy's journey is marked by his deep admiration for cricketing icons. He has openly expressed his reverence for Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, citing the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as his favorite team for the past decade. Reddy's dream of meeting Kohli was realized in 2023, and he cherishes the moment when Kohli remembered his name during a post-match handshake in 2024.Reddy's commitment to the game has also earned him recognition from other prominent figures in the cricketing world. T20 World Cup-winning all-rounder Hardik Pandya reached out to Reddy after the IPL, praising his on-field intent and energy. Pandya's message of encouragement and inspiration has further motivated Reddy to excel as an all-rounder.Reddy's performance in the IPL has not only garnered praise from his idols but has also marked a turning point in his career. His consistent contributions have solidified his position as a key player for Sunrisers Hyderabad and have opened doors to potential opportunities in the future.

Nitish Kumar Reddy, the breakout star of IPL 2024, has set his sights on emulating the iconic role of Hardik Pandya in the Indian cricket team. After a stellar season with Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he amassed 303 runs at a blistering strike rate of 142, Reddy was poised to make his India debut on the post-T20 World Cup tour to Zimbabwe. However, an untimely injury forced him to withdraw at the last moment.Undeterred, Reddy remains confident that his India debut is imminent. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, he revealed his aspirations to fill the void left by Pandya in the national setup. "There's a chance I'll get to play at no. 7 or no. 6, most likely a Hardik Pandya role," Reddy said. "I'm flexible to bat wherever I'm asked to, but as of now I'm preparing for the role that Hardik Pandya is playing."Reddy's versatility extends beyond his batting prowess. He has also showcased his skills as a handy pace bowler, recently becoming the most expensive player in the Andhra Premier League. This adaptability has made him a valuable asset for Sunrisers Hyderabad and has caught the attention of the Indian selectors.Despite his meteoric rise, Reddy remains grounded and realistic about his chances in the India setup. "If you ask me to open, I'll open as well," he said. "In the near future, I won't be getting the chance at the top order because there are more experienced players. I have to adapt to whatever role I'll get, and I've been prepared to adapt this way by domestic cricket."Reddy's selection for the Zimbabwe tour alongside a host of young players is a testament to the growing opportunities for emerging talent in Indian cricket. "I'm happy that there is a progression for youngsters who are performing well," he said. "After Rohit bhai (Rohit Sharma), Virat bhai (Virat Kohli) and Jaddu bhai (Ravindra Jadeja)'s retirements, there will be opportunities for youngsters. We need to grab them."At just 21, Reddy has already achieved significant milestones in his career. He is now a brand ambassador for Puma, the same brand as his idol, Virat Kohli. "My inspiration is Virat Kohli, so I'm really proud to be a part of Puma," Reddy said. "Puma really supported me through the IPL, and the greatest thing is that they're providing opportunities to youngsters like myself and Riyan Parag."With his exceptional talent, unwavering determination, and the support of a major brand, Nitish Kumar Reddy is poised to become a mainstay in the Indian cricket team for years to come.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) skipper Pat Cummins has lauded young batter Abhishek Sharma for his fearless approach at the crease, which played a pivotal role in their four-wicket victory over Punjab Kings (PBKS).Abhishek, alongside Heinrich Klaasen, delivered powerful performances that propelled SRH to victory, elevating them to the second spot on the points table. Abhishek's display of versatile batting skills during the match in Hyderabad on Sunday was particularly notable, as his contributions played a crucial role in SRH's successful chase against PBKS.Speaking after the game in the post-match presentation, Cummins said, "It is pretty cool, it is awesome. We have won six out of seven games here (at Hyderabad), it has been great and amazing. I did not know many guys coming into this season, but we have played great cricket and had some fun. Great bunch of guys. He (Abhishek) is amazing. I would not want to bowl to him. It is scary, as he plays with freedom, not only against pacers but also against spinners."Cummins also heaped praise on young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, for his "maturity beyond his age" and class as a player."Really satisfying and exciting. I have not played in finals (of IPL) before, we will know in a few hours which game it is. Playing some really good cricket, excited for what is ahead," he concluded.Abhishek has been a standout performer for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) this season, amassing 467 runs in 13 innings, making him the ninth highest run-scorer. His impressive batting average of 38.91 and a phenomenal strike rate of 209.41 underscore his impactful contributions to the team. Abhishek has scored three half-centuries, with an unbeaten 75 being his highest score of the season.Additionally, another exciting find for SRH this season has been Reddy, whose classy and composed batting style has won hearts and caught the attention of fans and critics alike. In 10 matches, he has scored 276 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 46.00 and a strike rate of 151.64, including two half-centuries. Reddy has also showcased his utility with the ball, claiming three wickets, further enhancing his value to the SRH squad.Coming to the match, PBKS won the toss and elected to bat first. A hard-hitting half-century from Prabhsimran Singh (71 in 45 balls, with seven fours and four sixes) and knocks from Rilee Rossouw (49 in 24 balls, with three fours and four sixes) and Atharva Taide (46 in 27 balls, with five fours and two sixes) set the tone for a big total, taking PBKS to 214/5 in their 20 overs.T Natarajan (2/33) was the pick of the bowlers for SRH.In the run-chase, after losing Travis Head for a duck, Abhishek Sharma (66 in 28 balls, with five fours and six sixes), Nitish Kumar Reddy (37 in 25 balls, with a four and three sixes) and Heinrich Klaasen (42 in 26 balls, with three fours and two sixes) played fiery knocks to propel SRH to 215/6 in 19.1 overs, winning the game with five balls left.Arshdeep Singh (2/37) was the pick of the bowlers for PBKS. Abhishek Sharma was the Player of the Match for his quickfire fifty.

Nitish Kumar Reddy, the rising star of Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), has etched his name in the history books of the Andhra Premier League (APL) T20 competition. The 20-year-old all-rounder became the most expensive player in the league's history after being acquired by the Godavari Titans for a whopping Rs 15.6 lakh.Reddy's impressive performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) have garnered widespread attention. In seven innings across nine matches, he has amassed 239 runs at an average of 47.80 and a strike rate of over 152, including two half-centuries. His best score of 76* came against Rajasthan Royals, a match-winning knock that included eight sixes.With his pace bowling, Reddy has also made a mark, claiming three wickets, including a spell of 2/17 against Delhi Capitals. His all-round abilities have made him a valuable asset for SRH, who are currently third in the IPL points table.Reddy's journey to the top has been filled with hard work and determination. He hails from a humble background in Andhra Pradesh and began playing cricket at a young age. His talent was recognized early on, and he represented India at the U-19 level.The APL is a domestic T20 league organized by the Andhra Cricket Association. It provides a platform for young cricketers to showcase their skills and gain experience. The league has featured several international Indian cricketers, including Srikar Bharat and Hanuma Vihari.Reddy's record-breaking acquisition in the APL is a testament to his growing stature in the cricketing world. He is seen as one of the most promising young all-rounders in India, and his performances in the IPL and APL have only reinforced that belief.As SRH prepares to face Gujarat Titans in their upcoming IPL match, Reddy will be looking to continue his impressive form. With his team just a win away from securing a playoff spot, Reddy's contributions could prove crucial in their quest for glory.