India gave debuts to two of the country’s most promising players in the first T20I against Bangladesh in Gwalior. Two players are Nitish Reddy and Mayank Yadav, who after a short spell of injury have finally made it to the international ranks.
Nitish scored an unbeaten 15 off 16 with the bat, which included a huge six over long-on, and ended with 0-17 with his pace bowling. Meanwhile, Mayank Yadav was brilliant on his international debut, finishing with 1-21 in four overs.
Both the youngsters can be the X factor for India in the future with their various skills. While Nitish is a rare commodity in India as a pace bowler, Mayank has the ability to consistently hit around 150 kmph.
Nitish Reddy talks about his international debut
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has uploaded a video in which Nitish Reddy shares his thoughts on his India debut. He admitted there was some nervousness, but it was a proud moment for the family.
Nitish Reddy further mentioned that he loves playing with senior players and working with the team’s coaching staff. The host then hailed the locker room atmosphere that helped him express himself.
“It’s a big moment for us. It’s a big moment to be a cricketer in India. It’s a dream come true. Obviously there’s nervousness, but I enjoy nervousness in pressure situations, so it was a very proud moment for me and my family. also,” Nitish said.
“Playing with such (senior) players and getting a lot of experience from the coaching staff, even in bowling, I get some sharp points in the Indian team,” he said.
Nitish Reddy also spoke about Suryakumar Yadav and claimed that he is calm as a captain. He later thanked Surya for giving freedom to the players.
“He’s very calm and cool. He’s a great captain. He didn’t put any pressure on us. We’re debutants, so there’s going to be nervousness and pressure. He gives the license that any youngster wants to get. He’s captain, so we’re very happy,” he said. Nitish Reddy.
Mayank Yadav on his India debut
Meanwhile, Mayank Yadav became the second debutant for India along with Nitish Reddy. Speaking in the same video, Mayank admitted that he was nervous and had the whole comeback of the last four months of rehab in front of his eyes when he got his hat.
“It was a great moment because I’m back from injury. I was a bit nervous this time. I was telling myself don’t stress yourself and don’t get upset. But when I knew I was going to play first. Mayank, I had this complete flashback for the last four months,” he said.
Mayank further said that he is not going to do girl and is only focusing on good line and length. The 22-year-old also claimed that it was easy for him to be under Morne Morkel as both of them know each other from their earlier stints with Lucknow Super Giants.
“It was so good. I didn’t think I’d end up with a girl. I just wanted to live the moment, enjoy the moment,” said Mayank.
“Yes, it’s comfortable for me. I’ve been with him for the last three years. So I know him and he knows me very well. So it’s very easy for me to work with him. He knows what’s best for me. and where I can work,” the young man added.
“He gives you freedom” – Mayank Yadav on Suryakumar Yadav
“He gives you freedom. Whenever I’m in the build-up, he tells me to do what I feel and that’s very important for a fast bowler, especially when you’re making your debut,” praised Mayank Suryakumar.
Both Nitish Reddy and Mayank Yadav made it to the Indian squad after their impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. While Nitish Reddy played a few crucial cameos for SRH in the middle order, Mayank went through a serious pace to grab everyone’s attention.
Both of them may continue to serve India long into the future. Meanwhile, India beat Bangladesh by 7 wickets in 49 balls thanks to three wickets each from Arshdeep Singh and Varun Chakravarthy. Hardik Pandya scored 39 off 16 balls with the bat while Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav scored 29 runs each.
