'Like Hardik Pandya' - Nitish Reddy Reveals His 'Ultimate Ambition' At Team India

Nitish Reddy opens up on team India opportunity [X.com]

India's Nitish Kumar Reddy is gearing up to step into the role made famous by Hardik Pandya for Team India. Despite missing out on a debut due to injury during India's post-T20 World Cup Zimbabwe tour, the 21-year-old from Sunrisers Hyderabad remains optimistic about his imminent national team debut.

Reddy, who amassed 303 runs in IPL 2024 at a striking rate of 142, sees himself fitting into the middle order, possibly batting at No. 7 or No. 6, akin to Pandya's versatile role. 

He emphasized his readiness to adapt to any batting position, citing his experience and flexibility in domestic cricket.

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Most likely a Hardik Pandya role: Nitish Reddy

"There's a chance I'll get to play at no. 7 or no. 6, most likely a Hardik Pandya role. I'm flexible to bat wherever I'm asked to, but as of now I'm preparing for the role that Hardik Pandya is playing," said Reddy.

Reflecting on his aspirations, Reddy acknowledged the competitive landscape of Indian cricket and the opportunities arising post-retirements of senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja. 

He expressed gratitude for the platform provided by brands like Puma, for whom he serves as a brand ambassador alongside his idol Kohli.

Having emerged as the costliest player in the Andhra Premier League, Reddy's dual proficiency as a batsman and an evolving pace bowler underscores his potential utility in various game scenarios. 

As he looks forward to the next phases of his career, including the upcoming IPL season, where he is expected to remain with Sunrisers Hyderabad.

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