Michael Clarke Backs Nitish Kumar Reddy for Promotion in Sydney Test
Former Australia captain Michael Clarke has praised India’s young all-rounder, Nitish Kumar Reddy. He called him a “genius” and urged for a higher batting order in the New Year’s Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Clarke thinks the 21-year-old has been underrated in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He is ready to take on more responsibility.
Nitish Reddy’s Breakthrough Performance
Nitish Kumar Reddy has been a top player for India in the series. His remarkable performances have made him a name to watch. The young all-rounder announced himself on the world stage. He played a career-defining innings in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG.
Batting at number eight with India at 191/6, Nitish showed great poise and skill. He toyed with the Australian bowlers. He made a swashbuckling maiden Test century. It reignited India’s fightback in the match. His celebration, in signature “Pushpa” style, further endeared him to fans.
Nitish’s innings showed he could both attack and counter-attack. It also proved he could bat with the lower order. His knock of 100+ runs was instrumental in giving India a competitive total in the first innings.
Michael Clarke’s High Praise
On the Beyond 23 Cricket Podcast, Michael Clarke praised Nitish Kumar Reddy’s batting. He called for a change in his batting order position.
“Reddy, this young kid batting at number eight, is a genius. I think he has definitely got to bat seven if not six. He has been India’s leading run-scorer, 21 years of age, unbelievable. He has been underrated in the entire series,” Clarke said on the Beyond 23 Cricket Podcast.
With 294 runs, Nitish is India’s second-highest scorer in the series. This strengthens his case for a promotion. Clarke praised Reddy’s ability to adapt and handle pressure. He admired his patience and skill in batting with the tail.
The Case for Batting Promotion
Clarke believes Nitish Kumar Reddy’s batting skills suit a higher spot in the order.
“He has impressed everyone. He has not feared any Australian bowler. He has been patient when he has needed to be patient. He has batted with the tail extremely well. He has shown his intent. He bats, bowls and fields,” Clarke said.
The former Australian skipper sees Nitish as a long-term asset for India. He values Nitish’s skills and his consistent contributions to the game.
“This guy is a very good find for the Indian cricket team. I think he is good enough to bat at number six. So what a great option for India going into the last Test match,” he added.
