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"You'll be an all-format great": Rohit Sharma '110% sure' of Nitish Reddy's rise

Soumyajit Dutta

Rohit Sharma handing Nitish Reddy maiden ODI cap [Source: @BCCI/X.com]Rohit Sharma handing Nitish Reddy maiden ODI cap [Source: @BCCI/X.com]

Nitish Kumar Reddy's maiden ODI debut for India in Perth was a bittersweet affair, overshadowed by a team defeat but illuminated by a moment of significant personal promise. The 22-year-old all-rounder, entering the fray in a rain-affected match against Australia, showcased his clean hitting with a brisk 11-ball 19* that included two sixes. 

Nitish Reddy's confidence was somewhat injected by Rohit Sharma, who handed him his maiden ODI cap and shared words of advice for him at the ceremony.

Rohit injects motivation for Nitish Reddy

In a heartfelt ceremony, the senior pro, Rohit Sharma did not just welcome Reddy into the fold but also bestowed a weighty and confident prediction regarding the youngster's international future.

“Cap No. 260, Nitish Reddy. Welcome to the club. You’ve had a great start to your career, and it’s only because of how you want to play the game and your attitude. I am 110% sure that with that attitude, you are going to go a long way in this Indian team," Rohit said during the cap presentation ceremony ahead of the toss of the first ODI.

Rohit didn't stop there. He also shared that Nitish is going to be an all-format great, given his potential with both the bat and the ball.

“You’re going to be an all-format great, which I believe thoroughly because, like you said in your speech yesterday, you want to be everywhere, and that is where we all want you to be doing that. So, good luck. I’m sure, 110% sure, that the team will rally around you. Anything you need, anytime you need anything, everyone will be there to support you. Good luck and have a great career," Rohit added.

Reddy peeked through the clouds on a lacklustre day

On the field, Reddy also bowled 2.1 overs, conceding 16 runs without taking a wicket. Having made his Test debut at the same venue last year, the young all-rounder will look to build on this start and justify the immense faith shown in him by the team leadership.

Although India succumbed to a seven-wicket loss under Shubman Gill's new captaincy, Reddy's fearless cameo provided a bright spark on an otherwise frustrating day for the visitors.