In a challenging first innings for India during the Adelaide pink-ball Test against Australia, Nitish Kumar Reddy stole the spotlight with an extraordinary reverse-scoop six that stunned everyone, including bowler Scott Boland. Tasked with salvaging the innings amidst a batting collapse, Reddy showcased his fearless approach with a jaw-dropping stroke that delighted fans and teammates alike.
Reddy’s Audacious Stroke Sparks Admiration
Facing a length delivery just outside off stump from Boland, Reddy surprised the Australian pacer with a perfectly executed reverse scoop. The ball soared over the slip cordon and cleared the boundary ropes, earning India six valuable runs. The precision and timing of the shot were remarkable, leaving Boland in disbelief, Jasprit Bumrah amused at the non-striker’s end, and possibly drawing a nod of approval from the dressing room where Rishabh Pant, known for his inventive stroke play, was watching.
Reddy, who was India’s last batter to fall, played a crucial knock of 42 runs to help the team push their total to 180. His fearless approach under pressure brought some much-needed runs to the Indian scoreboard.
A Struggling Indian Innings
India’s innings began on a disappointing note after captain Rohit Sharma won the toss and opted to bat. Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed on the very first ball by Mitchell Starc, setting the tone for a challenging day for the visitors. Despite a solid 69-run partnership between KL Rahul (37) and Shubman Gill (31), the batting lineup faltered soon after Rahul’s dismissal.
India lost crucial wickets quickly, including Virat Kohli (7), Rohit Sharma (3), and Rishabh Pant (21). The middle and lower order offered little resistance, with Ravichandran Ashwin contributing 22 runs before falling to Australia’s relentless attack.
Australian Bowlers Dominate
Mitchell Starc was the standout performer for Australia, dismantling India with figures of 6 for 48. His ability to extract swing and seam movement with the pink ball proved too much for the Indian batters. Pat Cummins provided strong support, taking two wickets, including the dismissal of Rishabh Pant, further derailing India’s innings.
What Lies Ahead
Although Reddy’s inventive shot provided a moment of brilliance in an otherwise dismal performance, India will need a collective batting effort in the second innings to stay competitive in the match. Australia’s bowlers, led by Starc and Cummins, will look to maintain their dominance as the Test progresses.
