Veteran cricketer emphasizes the importance of young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Kumar Reddy, praising their hunger and dedication while calling for stronger participation in domestic cricket.
Sydney [Australia], January 5: Following India’s 1-3 series defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, former Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar emphasized the need for “hungrier and committed young players” in the team. Gavaskar praised rising stars Yashasvi Jaiswal and Nitish Kumar Reddy for their resilience and determination throughout the series.
Despite a disappointing campaign that saw underwhelming performances from senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill, the grit displayed by Jaiswal and Nitish emerged as positives.
Yashasvi Jaiswal finished as India’s top run-scorer, amassing 391 runs in 10 innings at an average of 43.44, including a century and two fifties. His memorable 161-run knock in Perth and his two gritty 80s in Melbourne were standout moments, highlighting his composure and fearless attitude against the Australian pace attack.
Nitish Kumar Reddy, on the other hand, delivered both with the bat and ball, scoring 298 runs across nine innings, including a century in the Boxing Day Test. He also took five wickets with the ball, making crucial contributions in tense situations.
Speaking on Star Sports, Gavaskar said, “Players like Nitish Kumar Reddy and Yashasvi Jaiswal are the future of Indian cricket. They are hungry to succeed, to make a name for themselves and the country. We need more players with this kind of commitment, who protect their wicket like their life depends on it.”
Gavaskar also stressed the importance of domestic cricket participation, particularly the Ranji Trophy, urging players not involved in India’s T20 series against England to actively participate in domestic matches.
“I want to see who will play in the Ranji Trophy starting January 23. Commitment is key, and playing domestic cricket will show who is truly dedicated to improving their game,” he added.
### Match Recap:
India, after opting to bat first in the final Test at Sydney, struggled once again, managing just 185 runs in the first innings. Rishabh Pant (40), Ravindra Jadeja (26), and Jasprit Bumrah (22) were the notable contributors. Scott Boland wreaked havoc with a 4/31 spell.
In response, Australia scored 181 runs, with Beau Webster (57) and Steve Smith (33) offering some resistance. Prasidh Krishna (3/42) and Mohammed Siraj (3/51) spearheaded India’s bowling attack.
India’s second innings faltered again as they were bowled out for 157, with Rishabh Pant (61) delivering a lone counterattack. Scott Boland (6/45) continued his dominance, leaving Australia with a modest 162-run target.
Despite some initial hiccups, Australia chased down the target comfortably, thanks to contributions from Usman Khawaja (41), *Travis Head (34), and *Beau Webster (39).
Scott Boland was awarded Player of the Match for his 10-wicket haul, while Jasprit Bumrah earned the Player of the Series award with 32 wickets across five matches.
The series loss serves as a wake-up call for Indian cricket, with Gavaskar’s words echoing the need for hunger, determination, and a renewed focus on domestic cricket as the team looks ahead.
