Chapter 97
The day of the third T20 match between India and England in Hyderabad had arrived, and the city was buzzing with excitement. Among the locals, there was a special sense of anticipation as one of their own, Nitish Reddy, was in contention to make his T20 debut for India.
In the Indian team's dressing room, the atmosphere was tense as the team management was discussing the playing combination. Nitish had been in stellar form in domestic cricket, and his performances in the IPL and Syed Mustaq Ali Trophy had caught the attention of the selectors. The team management was seriously considering giving the talented all-rounder a chance to showcase his skills on the international stage.
As the captain, MS Dhoni, and the coach, Ravi Shastri, deliberated over the playing XI, they felt that adding an all-rounder like Nitish could provide the team with the much-needed balance. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball could prove to be crucial in a high-pressure match.
Finally, after much contemplation, the decision was made. Nitish Reddy would make his T20 debut for India in the third match against England. The news was conveyed to Nitish, and the joy and excitement he felt were indescribable. The thought of representing his country, especially in his home ground of Hyderabad, filled him with immense pride and happiness.
As the time for the toss approached, the tension among the players and the crowd in the stadium increased. Nitish, with a calm demeanor, tried to keep his nerves in check as he prepared for the momentous occasion.
The toss took place, and the Indian captain MS Dhoni walked out to the center alongside his English counterpart, Eoin Morgan. The stadium was packed to capacity, and the crowd eagerly waited to hear the playing XI for the Indian team.
With a confident smile, Dhoni announced the team's decision, "We have made one change in our playing XI. Nitish Reddy will be making his debut today. He replaces Ajinkya Rahane in the lineup."
The moment Nitish's name was announced, the entire stadium erupted in cheers and applause. The Hyderabad crowd had come out in full force to support their fellow Telugite, and they were ecstatic to see him get the opportunity to represent the country.
The loud cheers and chants of "Nitish! Nitish!" filled the air as the young all-rounder stepped onto the field for the warm-up. The energy and support from the crowd gave him an extra boost of confidence and motivation.
As the match began, Nitish's excitement and nerves were palpable. He started the game in the field, with the ball in his hand, and the expectations of an entire city resting on his shoulders. But he quickly composed himself, reminding himself to stay focused on the task at hand.
As the Indian team took the field, Nitish couldn't help but feel a surge of emotions. He looked around the stadium, taking in the sea of faces, some of whom had come to watch him play. Among the spectators, he spotted some cricketing greats of Hyderabad, like VVS Laxman, Pragyan Ojha and the Karnataka's legendary Gundappa Vishwanath.
Gundappa Vishwanath, fondly known as "Vishy" in the cricketing world, was one of the most elegant and stylish batsmen to have graced the game. He played for India in the 1960s and 1970s and was known for his exquisite wristwork and impeccable technique. Vishy had a special connection with Hyderabad, as he represented the city's team in domestic cricket and scored many memorable centuries on the hallowed grounds of the city.
As Nitish warmed up before the match, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride in representing the same city where Vishy had left an indelible mark. He admired the legendary cricketer from afar and drew inspiration from his grace and elegance on the field.
The match began, and England won the toss, electing to bat first. Nitish's heart was pounding with anticipation as he stood in the field, ready to make his mark in his debut match. As the bowlers charged in, Nitish was fully immersed in the game, offering his support and encouragement to his teammates.