Former Australia captain Michael Clarke believes India’s young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been underrated throughout the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and has called for his promotion in the batting order. Nitish has impressed with his dynamic performances, especially during the Boxing Day Test. In the first innings, when India was reduced to 191/6, Nitish lit up the MCG with a remarkable display. He took on the Australian bowlers, celebrating his fifty in ‘Pushpa’ style, and continued to accelerate, eventually scoring his maiden Test century.
With the MCG filled with emotion, Nitish sealed his century with a four, planted his bat on the ground, and celebrated his first Test ton for India.
“Reddy, this young kid batting at number eight, is a genius. He has to bat at seven, if not six. He’s been India’s leading run-scorer, just 21 years old, unbelievable. He’s been underrated in the entire series,” Clarke said on the Beyond 23 Cricket Podcast.
Nitish’s century boosted his total to 294 runs in the series, making him India’s second-highest run-scorer.
There has been much debate about his batting position. Currently, Nitish bats at number eight, but after witnessing his performance, Clarke believes the 21-year-old is ready for a higher spot.
“He’s impressed everyone. He’s not been afraid of any Australian bowler. He’s been patient when needed and batted well with the tail. He’s shown great intent. He bats, bowls, and fields,” Clarke said.
“This guy is a fantastic find for Indian cricket. He’s good enough to bat at number six, so what a great option for India in the final Test match,” he added.