The 21-year-old batter, who can bowl medium pace, announced his arrival in the IPL 2024 earlier this year, performing both with the bat and ball before earning his maiden call up the the national side. In a recent interview, the player from Visakhapatnam said Hardik Pandya and Ben Stokes are the players who inspired him to become an all-rounder and also shared his excitement about receiving a message from India's star all-rounder Pandya. "Hardik bhai sent me a message saying the intent and energy I was giving on the field was good and to keep respecting the game. He said we would talk soon," Nitish said. "I was shocked to see his message after the IPL season, especially since he was busy with World Cup duties. Hardik Pandya and Ben Stokes are my inspirations for being an all-rounder. I replied, thanking him for his message." Nitish Kumar Reddy's Favourite Players and Team The youngster further revealed how he admired Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers, with the duo making him also a huge fan of Royal Challengers Bengaluru when he was growing up. "I really admire Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers. I've been a huge fan of RCB for the last 10 years. In 2023, I had the chance to meet Virat Kohli. I didn't have much to ask him; I just wanted to shake his hand and get his autograph," Reddy added. "In 2024, I was hoping to play well against RCB so that Virat Kohli would notice my game. Though I didn't get to bat in that match, he remembered my name during the post-match handshake. That meant a lot to me." Support from Hanuma Vihari Speaking about early support in his cricket journey, Nitish said, "Hanuma Vihari supported me. He brought me into the Ranji Trophy after a good season in under-16. He said it was too early for me to play Ranji Trophy, so I joined as an understudy to learn. "The next year, he got me into the team. Even though he wasn't with me, he helped me gain experience. He told me it was just the start, and I needed to adapt to the situation." Recalling his initial days of cricket, Nitish shared how his father made sacrifices for him. "I still remember that my father heard the news of his transfer. Back in the day, 10-15 years ago, getting a government job was a big deal. "If someone got one, they would celebrate because it was considered a permanent job. Everyone was trying for a government job at that time. My father left his government job for me, which was a big statement." Challenges and Determination Nitish also spoke about facing challenges during his IPL journey in 2023. "In the 2023 season, I didn't get a chance to bat in the IPL. I was selected for the under-23 Indian team and played three matches but didn't get to bat as well as the top four batsmen would finish the game. I wanted people to notice that I can bat and I'm not just a bowler." He continued by explaining how he prepared himself during tough times: "When I went back home, I decided to prepare for facing 140-145 km/h deliveries. I practiced a lot, facing 145-150 km/h deliveries from side-armers. I got hit a lot, but after a month, I started timing the ball well." Nitish's dedication paid off as he improved significantly: "I realized the importance of consistent practice. My shadow practice routine, doing nets and gym work at home helped me a lot." He expressed optimism about future performances: "In 2024, you can see how my game has changed." Auction Day Emotions Nitish recounted his feelings on auction day when picked by Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). "I was expecting to get picked in the auction but didn't expect Sunrisers Hyderabad," he said proudly. He added how special it felt: "It's an honour to play for the home team." Sharing an emotional moment with family: "I called my father immediately; he and my mother were crying happy tears." Discussing making his parents proud: "Making my parents proud is what matters." Reflecting on another proud moment: "When I got selected for India... though missed out due to injury... happy having made him proud." Inspirations and Future Goals Nitish also talked about his inspirations: "Hardik Pandya and Ben Stokes are my inspirations for being an all-rounder." He expressed gratitude towards Hardik's encouragement. Looking ahead with determination: "I want people to notice that I'm not just a bowler." His goal remains clear: "I want to make India proud as well." Nitish's journey is marked by perseverance and support from mentors like Hanuma Vihari and idols like Virat Kohli.