“I’m preparing for Hardik Pandya’s role”: Young IPL star opens up opportunity for Team India

IPL 2024 Emerging Player of the Year Nitish Kumar Reddy has said that he is preparing to play in the “Hardik Pandya role” for Team India in the near future. After amassing 303 runs in the IPL at a strike rate of 142, Reddy was all set to make his debut in India’s post-T20 World Cup tour to Zimbabwe but had to pull out at the last minute due to an injury. However, the Sunrisers Hyderabad star is sure that he will make his India debut soon.

In an interaction with NDTV, Reddy spoke at length about the role he hopes to land when he dons the iconic blue jersey.

“There is a chance to play at No. 7 or No. 6, probably in Hardik Pandya’s role. I am flexible to bat wherever I am asked, but as of now I am preparing for the role that Hardik Pandya is playing,” said Reddy .

Reddy has shown his ability both as a batsman and, of late, as a handy bowler, and recently became the most expensive player in the Andhra Premier League.

The 21-year-old showed maturity beyond his years and was realistic about his chances in the Indian team.

“If you ask me to open it, I will open it too. In the near future, I won’t get the chance in the top order because there are more experienced players,” Reddy said. “I have to adapt to whatever role I take on and I am prepared to adapt in that way for domestic cricket,” he added.

Reddy has been selected for the five T20I tour of Zimbabwe alongside a bunch of new faces, in a team that will be led by Shubman Gill.

“I am happy that there is a progression for young people who perform well. After the retirements of Rohit bhai (Rohit Sharma), Virat bhai (Virat Kohli) and Jaddu bhai (Ravindra Jadeja), there will be opportunities for the youngsters. I need to grab them,” said Reddy.

At just 21 years old, Reddy already has the world at his feet and expressed delight in becoming a brand ambassador for Puma, the same brand as his idol, Virat Kohli.

“My inspiration is Virat Kohli, so I am very proud to be part of Puma. Puma really supported me during the IPL, and the best thing is that they are providing opportunities to youngsters like me and Riyan Parag,” said Reddy. .

Nitish Kumar Reddy is expected to be signed by Sunrisers Hyderabad ahead of next year’s mega auction after a successful IPL 2024.