‘Key contender for a spot’- MSK Prasad bats for Nitish Kumar Reddy’s inclusion in ODIs

A former top selector for India, MSK Prasad, has supported the inclusion of young Nitish Kumar Reddy in the Indian ODI team. The 21-year-old all-rounder has already created waves in Test and T20I cricket with outstanding performances, and Prasad thinks Reddy is a strong contender for the ODI squad because of his steady play.

Ever since making his debut in November 2024, Nitish Kumar has had an immediate impact. At an average of 37.25, he scored 298 runs and claimed five wickets in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. A century in the renowned Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was his breakthrough effort.

With 90 runs at an average of 45.00 and three wickets at 23.66 in just three games during the T20I series against Bangladesh, Reddy has also shown promise in the format. In addition, he was named the IPL 2024 Emerging Player of the Year.

People frequently claim that ODIs are the ideal fusion of the explosiveness of T20 cricket and the tenacity of Test cricket. A unique blend of style and intensity, Nitish has excelled in a variety of genres during his brief but significant international career. Nitish’s outstanding form and adaptability, which he has already demonstrated in T20s and Tests, strongly support his inclusion in India’s forthcoming ODI squad against England. Prasad was cited by the Times of India as saying, “His reliability and capacity to perform well make him a strong candidate for a spot in the Champions Trophy squad.”

In Australia, Nitish Kumar Reddy was a shining star: MSK Prasad

In addition, MSK Prasad praised Reddy’s achievements in Australia, calling them “above and beyond.” When facing a formidable pace attack from Australia, Reddy’s steady technique and reliability were evident.

Cricket players who can adjust and perform well in a variety of formats have long been praised in India, and Nitish is without a doubt one such player. He has proven himself to be a future staple of Indian cricket with his performances in Australia, in addition to passing the test. He’s a budding star,” he continued.

Before the ICC Champions Trophy in Dubai in February, India is preparing for a three-match ODI series against England. Reddy’s addition to the ODI lineup might improve India’s preparations even more, as he is already a member of the T20 team.

“Nitish was a shining star in Australia. In Australia, he and (opening) Yashasvi Jaiswal passed the acid test with impressive poise and talent. With more than 1,000 wickets under his belt, Nitish faced one of the most dangerous pace attacks in international cricket. Despite this, he showed great skill and a remarkable patience, persevering through every challenge. He continued by saying, “His performance was nothing short of spectacular for someone visiting Australia for the first time.