“Being an all-rounder is not easy” - Former Indian cricketers defend Nitish Kumar Reddy amid huge criticism

Former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra, Robin Uthappa and Manoj Tiwary have defended the Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who faced criticism from India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate for not living up to expectations despite getting multiple opportunities. 

Notably, Nitish could score 21-ball 20 runs in the second ODI against New Zealand in Rajkot. Moreover, with the ball, he conceded 13 runs in his two-over spell, without scalping a wicket, which didn’t go down well with the assistant coach. Eventually, India suffered a seven-wicket defeat.

After Ryan’s comments on Reddy, former Indian batter Aakash Chopra has stated that the all-rounder deserves a long run to create an impact in international cricket. On the other hand, Uthappa also asserted that Reddy needs more time in India colours to prove his worth.

“We make him bat at number seven, where he gets limited chances, and he bowls very few overs. If you don’t give opportunities, it becomes difficult for any young cricketer to make an impact unless you are an opener or a new-ball bowler,” Chopra stated. 

“Being an all-rounder is not easy. You have to master two skills. Ravindra Jadeja didn’t become what he is overnight, nor did Hardik Pandya. They became complete players because of the time they spent in international cricket. Nitish Reddy also needs that time,” Robin Uthappa told PTI Videos.

Furthermore, Manoj Tiwary reckoned that Reddy’s dip in form began after his maiden international hundred against Australia at the MCG, adding that it’s time for him to revisit the basics and get back to form.  

“Nitish’s downfall started after that innings. The over-celebration may have affected him. Now is the time for him to revisit the basics and get everything back in line,” Tiwary said at an event. 

After India’s defeat in the second ODI against the BlackCaps, Ryan ten Doeschate stated that it was a perfect chance for Reddy to walk into that situation and spend the remaining 15 overs on the wicket. 

“With Nitish, we keep talking about developing him and getting him game time and then when you do get him game time, he often ends up not doing a heck of a lot in the games,” ten Doeschate said in the post-match press conference after the second ODI.

“For someone who’s making their way, particularly with the bat tonight (Wednesday), it was that perfect chance where you’re walking in that situation and you’ve got a chance to spend 15 overs at the wicket. You really have to take those chances to push your case to be selected,” he added.

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