Vinay Kumar
Former Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma delivered an inspiring speech for ODI debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy during India’s first ODI match against Australia at Perth’s Optus Stadium on Sunday. Sharma expressed complete confidence that the 22-year-old all-rounder would become an “all-format great” player due to his remarkable attitude.Nitish, who made his Test debut during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia last year when Virat Kohli handed him his Test cap, returned to the same venue for his ODI debut eleven months later.During the cap presentation ceremony, Rohit Sharma shared encouraging words for the young fast-bowling all-rounder, highlighting his potential and assuring team support.Click here to watch the video.“Cap number 260, Nitish Reddy. You have got a great start to your career, and it’s only because of how you want to play the game and your attitude. I am 110 per cent sure that with that attitude, you are going to go a long way in this Indian team,” Rohit said in a video posted by the BCCI.“You are going to be an all-format great, which I believe thoroughly, because, like you said in your speech yesterday, you want to be everywhere, and that is where we all want you to be doing that. I am 110 per cent sure that the team will rally around you. Anything you need, anytime you need anything, everyone will be there to support you. Good luck, have a great career,” Rohit added.In his debut match, Nitish displayed his batting prowess by hitting two significant sixes during India’s innings, which was frequently interrupted by rain.The match was reduced to 26 overs per side due to weather conditions, with India struggling to maintain momentum in their batting.KL Rahul contributed 38 runs off 31 balls before his dismissal, after which Nitish remained unbeaten at 19 runs from 11 deliveries, helping India reach 136 for 9 wickets.Despite Nitish’s late batting surge, Australia, led by stand-in captain Mitchell Marsh, secured a seven-wicket victory through the DLS method.Marsh remained not out at 46 runs as Australia successfully chased down the target with 29 balls remaining.
