Sunil Gavaskar hails India star's comeback after injuries, impressed with IPL 2026 match-winning show: ‘Bowling quicker’

Former player Sunil Gavaskar was full of praise after an Indian all-rounder's recent bowling performance in IPL 2026.

Updated on: Apr 4, 2026, 06:14:53 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Sunil Gavaskar was left impressed by Nitish Kumar Reddy's performance in Sunrisers Hyderabad's last IPL 2026 outing against Kolkata Knight Riders on Thursday. Reddy was adjudged as the Player of the Match, registering 39 runs off 24 balls in the first innings, and also picking up two wickets (17/2) as KKR successfully defended their target.

Sunil Gavaskar noted the Indian cricketer's bowling improvement and felt that he looks 'fully fit and stronger physically.' (AFP)

Defending a target of 227 runs, SRH bowled out KKR for 161 in 16 overs, courtesy of a three-wicket haul from Jaydev Unadkat. Meanwhile, Ehsan Malinga and Reddy took two-wicket hauls. For KKR, Angkrish Raghuvanshi smacked 52 off 29 balls. Initially, Heinrich Klaasen's 35-ball 52 took SRH to 226/8 in 20 overs. Meanwhile, Travis Head (46), Abhishek Sharma (48) and Reddy (39) also got key knocks.

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Sunil Gavaskar impressed with Nitish Kumar Reddy

Speaking on Star Sports, the India legend noted Reddy's bowling improvement and noted that the SRH pacer looks 'fully fit and stronger physically.'

"He is definitely bowling quicker now and has clearly added a bit more pace. You can see better rhythm and flow in his action as well. That often happens when a player is fully fit and stronger physically," he said.

"He (Reddy) was praising his physical trainer and conditioning work, and that is a big positive. He's also getting the ball to bounce a little more, which we saw in the first game as well. That's very encouraging news for India," he further added.

After his breakout IPL 2024 season, Reddy was a favourite for a spot in the Indian team. But a recent run of fitness issues and injuries hampered his progress. In 2025, he suffered three injuries, which also ended his England and Australia tours prematurely.

Speaking after the win against KKR, he said, "It is just me trying to be positive. There have been too many negative thoughts in my mind because the last season didn't go my way, and I had too many injuries. I didn't bowl last season. I know I worked on my bowling a little bit. I got a break before the IPL season. I worked really hard on my bowling. It is really paying off. When you work hard, and it shows off on the ground, it feels happy. I am happy enough."

"I am feeling very good. Thanks to the trainers and the physios who have been taking care of me. I mean, my body is feeling fit now," he added.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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