Dharamsala: A heartwarming and light-hearted moment stole the spotlight after India’s convincing win over Afghanistan national cricket team in the first ODI, as all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy briefly paused his post-match press conference to attend a phone call from his mother.
The incident, which has since gone viral on social media, unfolded during the customary media interaction following the rain-curtailed clash at Dharamsala. Nitish, who was answering a journalist’s question, suddenly noticed the incoming call and politely excused himself. In a candid and relatable moment, he informed his mother that he would call her back in five minutes before apologising to the reporter and continuing with the interaction.
The gesture drew smiles from those present and quickly resonated with fans online, who appreciated the simplicity and authenticity of the young cricketer’s response amid the pressures of international cricket.
India cruise to victory in rain-hit encounter
The match itself was reduced to a 25-overs-per-side contest due to rain, but India delivered a commanding performance to secure a seven-wicket victory and take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Opting to bowl first, India made early inroads, reducing Afghanistan to 26/3. However, a stunning counter-attacking century from Rahmanullah Gurbaz brought the visitors back into the contest. Gurbaz smashed 102 off just 51 deliveries, showcasing aggressive strokeplay with eight sixes and eight fours.
He stitched a crucial 116-run partnership with skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, who contributed a steady 27 off 30 balls. Despite the recovery, Afghanistan were bowled out for 194 in 24.5 overs.
Debutants and bowlers deliver for India
India’s bowling unit impressed collectively, with debutants Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey leading the charge. Brar picked up 3/27 in 4.5 overs, while Dubey returned figures of 3/47, both making an immediate impact in their maiden international outings.
Nitish himself contributed with the ball, delivering a tidy spell of 2/31 in four overs. His wickets included the prized scalps of Gurbaz and experienced all-rounder Mohammad Nabi, underlining his growing importance as a seam-bowling all-rounder.
Gill anchors chase with match-winning knock
Chasing 195, India got off to a solid start before losing Rohit Sharma for 16. Skipper Shubman Gill then took charge of the innings with a composed and authoritative knock.
Gill remained unbeaten on 84 off 66 balls, striking 11 fours and two sixes. He stitched a 70-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, who scored a brisk 34, and later added another 55 runs with KL Rahul, who finished unbeaten on 39 off just 19 deliveries.
India comfortably chased down the target in 22.5 overs, sealing the win with ease. Gill’s match-winning performance earned him the Player of the Match award.
Nitish’s rise continues after IPL success
Nitish’s growing confidence at the international level follows an impressive season in the Indian Premier League, where he represented Sunrisers Hyderabad. The young all-rounder scored 302 runs in 13 innings at an average of 30.20 and an explosive strike rate of 171.59, along with picking up eight wickets.
His ability to contribute in both departments has made him a valuable addition to the Indian squad, particularly in shorter formats where versatility is key.
A viral moment beyond cricket
While India’s dominant performance ensured a strong start to the series, it was Nitish Kumar Reddy’s candid moment during the press conference that captured the imagination of fans. In an era where cricketers are often seen through the lens of intense professionalism, such glimpses of personal connection offer a refreshing perspective.
Conclusion
India’s comprehensive win in Dharamsala highlighted their depth and balance, with both experienced players and newcomers stepping up. However, beyond the runs and wickets, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s brief pause to answer his mother’s call became a defining moment of the day—reminding fans that even on the biggest stages, simple human connections remain at the heart of the game.