In an unprecedented display of resilience and skill, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar have etched their names in the cricket history books during the third day of the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the Frontera-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
Nitish Kumar Reddy’s brilliant maiden century
Nitish, the 21-year-old all-rounder, came into bat when India was in a precarious position at 191/6, still far behind Australia. His determination and technique were on full display as he not only anchored the innings but also scored his first Test century, becoming the first Indian at number eight to achieve this feat in Australia.
Washington Sundar’s crucial role in record partnership
Nitish’s knock was a mix of patience and aggression, showing his ability to adapt under pressure. Along with Reddy, Washington, known for his bowling, played an equally crucial role. Together, they formed a partnership that not only frustrated the Australian bowling attack but also broke records.
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Breaking records: a partnership for life
Their eighth-wicket stand was not just about runs but also about the number of pitches faced, with both players reaching over 150 balls in their innings, an achievement never before seen by batsmen in these positions in Test matches. Their partnership has achieved what no other pairing of numbers eight and nine in the batting order has achieved in the 147-year history of Test cricket in India. The duo’s stamina was evident as they faced 210 deliveries together, setting a new benchmark for stamina and skill at the MCG, one of cricket’s most iconic venues.
India fight back riding on Nitish and Washington’s batting heroics
Nitish’s innings was spectacular, remaining unbeaten on 105 runs off 176 balls, including 10 fours and a six. His father’s emotional reaction to his son’s achievement, captured on camera, added a poignant human element to the sporting spectacle. Washington, on the other hand, played a more measured innings, scoring a half-century off 146 balls, providing the perfect complement to Reddy’s more aggressive approach.
The partnership was crucial in reducing India’s deficit to 116 runs at the end of Day 3, giving India a ray of hope in what looked like a lost cause earlier in the day. The duo’s effort was not just about personal milestones but also about team survival, showcasing the depth and quality of the lower tier of Indian cricket.