NEW DELHI: Sunrisers Hyderabad's all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy left an indelible mark with a match-winning performance, etching his name in the annals of IPL history, in a thrilling encounter against the Punjab Kings on Tuesday.
Nitish displayed prowess in all facets of the game, playing a pivotal role in SRH's narrow 2-run victory over PBKS.
With the bat, he showcased his batting prowess by smashing a splendid 64 off just 37 deliveries. Not stopping there, Nitish also made significant contributions with the ball, dismissing Jitesh Sharma and claiming a crucial catch to dismiss Prabhsimran Singh.
In a remarkable feat, Nitish became the first uncapped player in IPL history to achieve the milestone of scoring 50-plus runs, taking a wicket, and securing a catch in a single IPL match.
Furthermore, at the age of 20 years and 319 days, he became the second youngest player to notch a half-century in the IPL, with Priyam Garg holding the record as the youngest at 19 years and 307 days.
Reflecting on his outstanding performance, Nitish expressed his elation and credited his belief in himself for his success.
"For me, it's like a big contribution for my team and for myself. I have been telling myself that I should believe in myself," he remarked. Nitish further elaborated on his batting strategy, emphasizing his cautious approach against seamers and his aggressive intent against spinners, utilizing the dimensions of the pitch to his advantage.
1/9:Punjab Kings suffer narrow loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad
<p>Punjab Kings suffer narrow loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad</p>AFP
2/9:Young Nitish Reddy's Heroic Innings
<p>Young Nitish Reddy showcased remarkable character with a 37-ball 64, guiding Sunrisers Hyderabad to a thrilling two-run victory over Punjab Kings in a see-sawing IPL encounter.</p>AFP
3/9:SRH's Recovery
<p>Sent in to bat, Reddy's explosive knock rescued SRH from a precarious position of 66 for four in the 10th over, propelling them to a competitive total of 182/9.</p>AFP
4/9:PBKS Fight Back
<p>Punjab Kings fought valiantly in their chase, with Shashank Singh (46*) and Ashutosh Sharma (33*) forging a crucial 66-run partnership, keeping their hopes alive till the very end.</p>AFP
5/9:Last Over Drama
<p>Despite needing 29 runs in the final over, SRH's victory was far from assured as Shashank and Ashutosh mounted a daring challenge, coming within touching distance of an improbable win.</p>AFP
6/9:Reddy's Explosive Batting
<p>Hailing from Visakhapatnam, Reddy's innings was studded with five sixes and four fours, anchoring SRH's innings with his aggressive strokeplay.</p>AFP
7/9:Arshdeep Singh's Brilliance
<p>Left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh starred with the ball for PBKS, claiming impressive figures of 4/29, yet SRH managed to post a formidable total against all odds.</p>AFP
8/9:Dhawan's Captaincy
<p>Despite early setbacks in decision making, PBKS skipper Shikhar Dhawan led from the front, concocting the plans for key dismissals and marshalling his troops effectively in the field.</p>AFP
9/9:SRH's Defensive Effort
<p>SRH's bowlers held their nerve in the face of PBKS's late surge, ultimately clinching victory in a nail-biting finish, thanks to Reddy's heroic performance and collective team effort.</p>AFPAs SRH clinched victory in a tightly contested match, Nitish's stellar performance stood as a testament to his talent and determination. Looking ahead, he expressed his desire to continue delivering impactful performances, whether with the bat, ball, or in the field, aiming to maintain his high standards throughout the tournament.
(With inputs from ANI)
