“He’s a great prospect” - Irfan Pathan hails Indian debutant for impressive performance on Day 1 of 2024-25 BGT 1st Test
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan hailed Nitish Kumar Reddy for his impressive performance on Day 1 of the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy first Test, held on Friday, November 22, at Perth Stadium. Making his Test debut, the young all-rounder came in at No. 8, with India struggling at 73 for six.
Nitish forged a crucial 48-run partnership off 85 balls for the seventh wicket with Rishabh Pant. The 21-year-old played a solid knock, scoring 41 off 59 balls, including six boundaries and a six, helping India reach 150 in their first innings.
Impressed by the youngster's performance, Irfan Pathan took to X to praise Nitish, writing:
"Nitish Kumar Reddy looked ready at this level with his inning. There will be challenges ahead but he is a great prospect for team India."
Meanwhile, the Andhra cricketer made his T20I debut earlier this year during the series against Bangladesh. He scored 90 runs in three matches, including a half-century, and also took three wickets.
Skipper Jasprit Bumrah helps India take command in the first BGT Test 2024-25
After opting to bat first, India had a rocky start, losing half their side for just 59 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal (0), Devdutt Padikkal (0), Virat Kohli (5), and Dhruv Jurel (11) all failed to make an impact, while KL Rahul was dismissed for 26 following a controversial decision.
Rishabh Pant (37 off 78) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (41 off 59) steadied the innings, helping India reach 150 in their first innings. Josh Hazlewood was the standout bowler for Australia, taking four wickets.
In response, Indian stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah made an impact early, taking the wickets of Nathan McSweeney (10), Usman Khawaja (8), and Steven Smith (0) in his first four overs. Debutant Harshit Rana claimed his maiden wicket by dismissing Travis Head (11). Mohammed Siraj then removed Marnus Labuschagne (2) and Mitchell Marsh (6) in quick succession.
At the close of play on Day 1, Australia were 67 for seven, with Alex Carey (19) and Mitchell Starc (6) at the crease.