IND vs AUS 4th Test Day 3: Nitish Kumar Reddy Brings Allu Arjun's Pushpa 2 Craze to Cricket Pitch, Watch

Rising star Nitish Kumar Reddy delivered an outstanding performance under pressure on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test between India and Australia. The 21-year-old batter, known for his promise, reached his maiden half-century in Test cricket, much to the excitement of fans at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Nitish Kumar Reddy Channels Allu Arjun’s Pushpa 2 Craze After Maiden Test Half-Century

NITISH KUMAR REDDY WITH PUSHPA CELEBRATION. 🥶 pic.twitter.com/9NHjpPdBpj

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 28, 2024

Reddy's milestone came in dramatic fashion as he smashed a boundary off a wide delivery from Australian pacer Mitchell Starc. This boundary not only secured his fifty but also lit up the crowd as Reddy celebrated with a unique gesture inspired by the hit movie Pushpa: The Rise. Mimicking Allu Arjun’s iconic character Pushpa Raj, Reddy raised his bat and mimicked the signature move, drawing cheers from fans and recognition from the commentary box. Legendary commentator Sunil Gavaskar, an avid movie enthusiast, immediately noted the reference, calling it “a moment for the fans to remember.”

Match Scenario

At the end of Day 3, India is battling to stay in the game against a formidable Australian bowling attack. Resuming the day at 136/5, India leaned heavily on Reddy and wicketkeeper KS Bharat to steady the ship after losing key wickets early. Reddy’s knock came when the team was in dire need of runs, showcasing his grit and determination.

India managed to push their score to 286, thanks to Reddy’s 63 off 147 balls and crucial contributions from the tailenders. However, Australia still holds the upper hand, having enforced a follow-on after India trailed by 198 runs in the first innings.

As the fourth Test progresses, India faces an uphill battle to save the match. With two days remaining, the team will need a stellar effort from their top order to avoid a series-defining defeat.

Reddy’s maiden fifty and his entertaining celebration have already left a mark on this match, proving that cricket is as much about style and personality as it is about skill. Fans eagerly await what the young batter will bring to the pitch next.