Nitish Reddy should have been selected from the opening game of the ODI series against New Zealand, which ended on Sunday, January 18, according to former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan. In light of Reddy’s performance in the third ODI, Pathan thinks India needs to stick with the young player even if he has a tough spell.
Reddy had little role in the second ODI despite being draughted into the starting lineup to replace Washington Sundar, who was hurt. In the series decider, he was given more responsibilities, though. Reddy made a big impact with the bat, scoring a calm 53 and forming an important 88-run partnership with Virat Kohli during India’s chase of 338, despite going wicketless in his eight overs.
Reddy was one of India’s main advantages, according to Pathan, even if the team had a disheartening series loss. The former cricket player supported the 22-year-old as a possible long-term replacement for Hardik Pandya in the Indian squad, highlighting his ability to reach speeds of about 135 kmph.
In Rajkot, Nitish Reddy took Washington Sundar’s place after he hit a fifty with the bat.
A plus was Nitish Reddy. He ought to have started the first game, in my opinion. Reddy shown his ability to rotate strike and play powerful strokes through his batting style. On his YouTube channel, Pathan stated, “Reddy was also involved in good partnerships in both games.”
“Whether he’s playing straight or pulling, Reddy can execute those massive shots with ease. The pace at which Nitish Reddy bowled reached 135 mph. He has the ability to be Hardik Pandya’s backup, as seen by his respectable speed. The management should stick with Reddy even if he doesn’t work out, and India will eventually have a good all-round player,” he continued.
Pathan said that another significant advantage for India in the series was Harshit Rana’s all-around efforts. The young player’s batting performances in the first and third ODIs, where Rana demonstrated poise and determination under duress, especially impressed him.
“The way Harshit Rana batted—he helped India add 99 runs with Virat Kohli after scoring 29 in the opening game. In all three games, Rana got Devon Conway out by making those big shots and making him his bunny. However, Rana needs to bowl more effectively when facing right-handers. He averages 15.7 versus left-handers but 34.6 against right-handers, according to the statistics, said Pathan.
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