"He looked every inch a Test cricketer" - Aussie legend's huge praise for Nitish Reddy after debutant shines on Day 1 of 1st BGT 2024-25 Test
Former Australian keeper-batter Adam Gilchrist stated that Nitish Kumar Reddy looked every inch a Test cricketer on his debut against Australia in Perth on Friday, November 22. Gilchrist was particularly impressed with the youngster's positive approach against legendary Aussie off-spinner Nathan Lyon.
Reddy top-scored for India with 41 off 59 balls in India's first innings in Perth. Batting first after winning the toss, the visitors were in all sorts of trouble at 73-6. The debutant then joined keeper-batter Rishabh Pant (37) at the crease and the duo added 48 for the seventh wicket.
During an interaction on Cricbuzz, Gilchrist was asked what he made of Reddy's debut innings. Impressed by the youngster's performance, the former Australian stumper replied:
"I though he looked every inch a Test match cricketer out there. He came in with wickets tumbling and had to try and forge a partnership with the ever-dangerous Rishabh Pant. He settled into his innings well. He was positive against Nathan Lyon, who has an outstanding Test record at Perth stadium.
"So, the momentum shifted somewhat when they were together. That's an exciting start for the young man," the 53-year-old on to add.
Gilchrist also hailed Pant for another crucial knock with the Indian team under the pump. Praising the left-hander, he commented that Pant seems to enjoy the challenge of rescuing the side from tough circumstances.
"While Rishabh was there, anything was possible by way of a total. Wickets falling around him always seem to draw a positive response from him. I love watching him play. We're so excited to see him, given the history and everything - the extraordinary accident that he recovered from," Gilchrist, who batted in a similar mode to the Indian keeper, stated.
While Pant struck three fours and a six in his knock before being dismissed by Pat Cummins, Reddy hit six fours and a six before also falling to the Australian captain, top-edging a pull.
"I just went with my plans" - Reddy on his debut knock
Speaking at the press conference after the end of the opening day's play in Perth, Reddy asserted that he just wanted to keep things simple and stick to his plans. He also acknowledged Pant's guidance during their crucial partnership
“I just went with my plans and my partner Rishabh is an attacking batter. He was guiding me all the time. There was not much drift for Lyon and I decided to get some quick runs and help the team move ahead," the 21-year-old said.
Responding to India's first innings total of 150, Australia went to stumps at 67-7 as Jasprit Bumrah claimed 4-17 in 10 overs. Alex Carey was batting on 19 and Mitchell Starc on six at close of play.