Nitish Kumar Reddy’s maiden Test century marked a historic moment, fulfilling his father’s lifelong dream.
New Delhi: On December 28, 2024, Nitish Kumar Reddy made history in Indian cricket by scoring his maiden Test century at the renowned Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Batting at No. 8, he reached the landmark with a boundary on his 171st delivery, finishing unbeaten on 100. This remarkable innings demonstrated his calmness under pressure and earned him the distinction of being the first Indian No. 8 to score a century in Australia.
While Nitish celebrated on the field, the spotlight turned to his father, Mutyala Reddy, who was present in the stands. Mutyala’s emotional reaction—cheers, applause, and tears of joy—was captured live, moving millions of viewers. During a post-match interview, he shared his feelings, saying, “Today is a special moment. Special day. We cannot forget this day in our life.”
ALSO READ: Puma trolls Manjrekar after Nitish scores century in Melbourne Test
Mutyala’s journey to see this moment was nothing short of extraordinary. Retiring from his job 25 years ago, he dedicated his life to nurturing Nitish’s cricketing dreams. Facing financial hardships and criticism from relatives, Mutyala remained unwavering in his support, ensuring his son had every opportunity to pursue his passion.
Commentators and analysts lauded Nitish’s performance and the emotional narrative surrounding it. Former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist said, “It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of both Nitish and his father.” The commentary box echoed praise for Nitish’s composure and determination during a challenging phase of the game.
ALSO READ: Irfan says Aussies most unfair cricketers; fined him for clapping, let Martyn go
The father-son moment resonated widely on social media, where videos of Mutyala’s reaction went viral. Fans poured in messages of admiration for the sacrifices made by Mutyala and the determination shown by Nitish. One user tweeted, “Behind every great player is an even greater story of sacrifice and love.”
Nitish’s century was more than a personal milestone; it symbolized the power of dreams, dedication, and the unyielding support of a parent. As India celebrated this historic moment, it reminded everyone that behind every victory lies a story of immense perseverance and sacrifice.