Boxing Day Test day-3: Reddy-Sunder partnership stole the show

MELBOURNE, 28 December 2024: On day-3 of the Boxing Day Test India trailed by 116 runs with one wicket in hand, with Australia still in command. Nitish K. Reddy and all-rounder Washington Sundar’s 127 (Reddy 105) gave some hopes to India.

The highlight of the day was Reddy’s maiden century, with fans around the world cheering, and off course Reddy’s dad was at the MCG. He cheered his son with thousand at the MCG. An honour for India’s new Cricket hero.

ANI adds:

In a video shared by the BCCI on X, Nitish revealed the reason behind his celebration and said, “After my hundred, I was planting my bat over there and keeping my helmet, so the Indian flag is there, so I am just planting the Indian flag and saluting it.”
The journey to his maiden Test ton was far from easy, marked by challenges, especially after India lost Washington Sundar and Jasprit Bumrah in quick succession.
When Mohammed Siraj joined Nitish at the crease, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins had three deliveries left to deny Nitish his century. Siraj, however, weathered the storm, ensuring Nitish got back on strike to complete his hundred in red-ball cricket.

“I just kept saying to myself, keep fighting, which motivated me. He was like I will do it. He was boosted up, and I was so happy. I wanted to perform in Australia so that everyone recognises me,” he added.
Washington, who was pivotal in helping Nitish express himself, revealed the fighting spirit that the duo displayed is something that comes from head coach Gautam Gambhir.

“Today was special. Me and Nitish kept telling each other that we would keep fighting no matter what. That is something that has come from Gauti bhai. That made things easier for us. A lot of things went our way. Really happy for Nitish for his first hundred,” Washington said.

India will resume their innings on Day 4, still trailing by 116 runs, with Nitish and Mohammed Siraj unbeaten at the crease.

By SAT Sports Desk + ANI

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