NEW DELHI: Michael Clarke, the former Australian skipper, has expressed his admiration for India's emerging all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, suggesting he deserves more recognition in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series and should bat higher in the order.
Nitish has made a remarkable impression in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. At the Boxing Day Test, when India struggled at 191/6, he delivered an exceptional performance at the MCG.
His aggressive batting display against the Australian attack included a flamboyant celebration in 'Pushpa' style upon reaching his fifty. He maintained his momentum and proceeded to achieve his first Test century.
The emotional moment at the MCG saw Nitish secure his maiden Test hundred with a boundary, followed by grounding his bat and celebrating this significant milestone in his India career.
"Reddy, this young kid batting at number eight, is a genius. I think he has definitely got to bat seven if not six. He has been India's leading run-scorer, 21 years of age, unbelievable. He has been underrated in the entire series," Clarke said on the Beyond 23 Cricket Podcast.
His century boosted Indian morale and took his BGT series total to 294 runs, placing him as India's second-highest scorer in the series.
Discussions have emerged about his batting position, as he currently occupies the number eight spot. Clarke, impressed by Nitish's batting prowess, advocates for his promotion up the order.
"He has impressed everyone. He has not feared any Australian bowler. He has been patient when he has needed to be patient. He has batted with the tail extremely well. He has shown his intent. He bats, bowls and fields," Clarke said.
"This guy is a very good find for the Indian cricket team. I think he is good enough to bat at number six. So what a great option for India going into the last Test match," he added.
