Nitish Kumar Reddy Aims for All-Rounder Role in 2027 ODI World Cup

Nitish Kumar Reddy's Ambitions for the Future

Christchurch [New Zealand], October 24: All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has expressed his eagerness to solidify his role as a full-fledged all-rounder, potentially teaming up with star player Hardik Pandya in the upcoming 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. He emphasized the importance of gaining experience as he prepares for this prestigious tournament.

Demonstrating his capabilities as a pace-bowling all-rounder, Nitish took a vital wicket of Bevon Jacobs, finishing with figures of 1/31 in three overs, while also contributing a crucial 26* off 13 balls. His performance helped India secure a four-wicket victory after they found themselves struggling at 112/6 while chasing a target of 181 runs.

Following the match, Nitish was asked about his readiness to continue as an all-rounder alongside Hardik Pandya in South Africa. He remarked, "Bowling in challenging situations enhances your skills. Right now, it's all about accumulating experience before the World Cup arrives."

In his eight ODIs, Nitish has amassed 109 runs at an average of 27.25, including a half-century, and has taken three wickets. His bowling has particularly thrived in T20Is, where he has claimed 11 wickets in 11 matches at an average of 25.36, with best figures of 3/24.

Reflecting on his quick innings during a tense chase, Nitish shared his strategy of applying pressure back on the New Zealand bowlers, especially when India needed 69 runs off 31 balls with only four wickets remaining. He stated, "As soon as I entered, I believed we could turn the game around with one strong over, which is crucial in T20 cricket."

He also acknowledged the role of India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, in maintaining a pressure-free environment for the players. "Gautam sir encourages us to believe in ourselves, regardless of the situation. He doesn’t impose extra pressure, allowing us to play our natural game, which ultimately leads to positive results," he added.

In the match, India won the toss and opted to bowl first, reducing New Zealand to 41/3 during the powerplay. Glenn Phillips (70 off 46 balls) and Bevon Jacobs (58 off 46 balls) led a recovery, forming a 116-run partnership for the fourth wicket, helping New Zealand reach 180/5 in their 20 overs.

Alongside Arshdeep's impressive 2/33, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Prince Yadav, and Nitish Kumar Reddy each took a wicket. During the chase for 181, India faced a dramatic collapse from 40/0 to 112/6, largely due to Mitchell Santner's four wickets. However, a quick 31 off 17 balls from Naman Dhir, along with a solid 51* from Tilak and Nitish's 26*, guided India to victory with just one ball remaining. India now leads the five-match series 2-0.