Every IPL season introduces new talents, with some names being relatively unknown and others who carry expectations due to their domestic performances. This year, the Andhra all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy was in the spotlight after an exceptional season in the Ranji Trophy. Reddy, a pace-bowling all-rounder, is a noteworthy rarity in Indian cricket.
However, translating domestic performance into IPL success is no easy feat, especially for someone who missed the last two seasons of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Yet, Nitish Kumar Reddy did just that, playing pivotal roles for the Sunrisers Hyderabad. Batting at No 4 with a strike rate of 143, taking key wickets, and winning the Emerging Player of the Season award, Reddy played a crucial role in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s remarkable turnaround, making it to the final in 2024 after finishing 10th the previous year.
In an exclusive interview with India TV, Reddy shared insights into his journey, his IPL season, and future aspirations.
**Setting the Stage: Goals and Preparations**
Reflecting on the season, Reddy humbly stated that he did not set particular personal goals regarding runs or strike rates. “To be honest, I didn’t have any specific personal goals. I practiced roles I might play, especially in finishing. I worked on power hitting and downgoing swings during the net sessions and the off-season,” he revealed. His focus was on preparing according to the team’s needs rather than individual achievements.
**A Surprising Retention**
There was an element of surprise for Reddy when Sunrisers Hyderabad retained him. Having missed the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for two years due to injuries, he doubted his selection prospects. “I thought no one would notice me. But at the Sunrisers trials, they were impressed, which was unexpected. When they retained me, it was a very happy moment for me,” he recalled.
**From Benches to Centrestage**
Not starting in the playing XI posed its own challenges, initially bringing doubts of staying on the bench. “In my first year, I doubted getting opportunities as the team was packed with talent. But I did get a chance in the last two matches, though I couldn’t showcase my batting then,” he admitted. This season, Reddy felt more confident of opportunities and utilized his first real chance against Punjab in the fourth match.
**Adaptation and Adjustment**
Adapting to a higher batting order in IPL compared to lower-order roles in domestic cricket was challenging. Reddy credited his preparation and adaptability, mentioning that he didn’t have extensive T20 experience but gained insights by watching and playing. “I started preparing for collapse situations and how I’d handle early powerplay entries. Visualization helped in staying calm and composed.
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**Evolving Role in the Team**
Initially, Reddy was set for a lower-order role. However, unforeseen circumstances, like Mayank’s illness, promoted him up the order. His performance against Punjab established him as a reliable middle-order player, which led to the team placing greater trust in him.
**Mindset for Varied Situations**
Given Sunrisers Hyderabad’s aggressive batting approach, Reddy faced varied situations, sometimes needing to stabilize early innings or finish strongly. “I envisioned scenarios and planned my approach accordingly. Preparation for such instances was crucial,” he explained.
**Communication and Perception**
Reddy’s batting prowess was largely unknown outside Andhra until his IPL stint. “In the IPL and U-23 India, I debuted primarily as a bowler. This season, I emphasized improving my batting, and SRH noticed. The trials and practice matches strengthened their confidence in my abilities,” he shared.
**Balancing All-rounder Responsibilities**
Training for an all-rounder involves maintaining fitness and balancing batting and bowling practice. “Recovery and discipline in sleep and overall fitness are vital. Depending on my physical state, I balance my training. I push limits during the off-season but stay fresh for games.”
**Handling Expectations and Pressure**
Winning the title of the most expensive player in the Andhra League auction adds pressure. “Expectations have risen. Handling pressure requires mental strength, confidence, and dedication,” Reddy asserted, highlighting the importance of staying strong mentally to perform well under scrutiny.
**Learning from Legends**
Playing alongside and against cricket legends like Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Pat Cummins was invaluable. “It’s inspiring to learn from the best. Playing under a World Cup-winning captain like Cummins and interacting with stalwarts like Kohli and Dhoni provided immense learning experiences.”
**Staying Present-focused**
Finally, Reddy emphasized his focus on the present, despite talks of potential international appearances. “I concentrate on current improvements and handle challenges. As for future India caps, I’ll work towards it without losing sight of my immediate goals.”
The saga of Nitish Kumar Reddy’s rise in the IPL 2024 season is a commendable journey of perseverance, adaptability, and remarkable talent, promising a bright future for the young star in Indian cricket.
