Former Australia captain Michael Clarke feels India all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy should bat at number 6 in the upcoming fifth Test against Australia in Sydney. Notably, Reddy is the third-highest run scorer of the series so far with 294 runs from four Tests (7 innings) at an average of 49 with one hundred to his name.
He registered his maiden Test century on Day 3 of the fourth Test in Melbourne, playing a magnificent knock of 114 (189) with the help of 11 fours and a six. Following his remarkable century, Clarke was in awe of Reddy’s talent as he called him a ‘genius’ and mentioned that he should be batting at number 6 in the Sydney Test.
Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024: Full Coverage
“Reddy, this young kid batting at number eight, is a genius. I think he has definitely got to bat seven if not six. He has been India’s leading run-scorer, 21 years of age, unbelievable. He has been underrated in the entire series. I think he is good enough to bat at number six. So what a great option for India going into the last Test match,” Clarke said on Beyond 23 Cricket Podcast.
“He has impressed everyone. He has not feared any Australian bowler. He has been patient when he has needed to be patient. He has batted with the tail extremely well. He has shown his intent. He bats, bowls and fields,” he added.
Will management promote Nitish Reddy up the order?
Reddy has been consistent with the bat throughout the series as he’s scored crucial runs down the order across all four Tests. His promotion at number 6 could well help India add another bowling option in the playing XI, and fix the area they’ve struggled in the series so far.
It remains to be seen whether the team management alters their batting line-up in the fifth and final Test of the series as India are desperate to win the game to retain the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.
