Ashish Reddy is, perhaps, the most complete cricketer in the current Hyderabad team when it comes to being good in all three departments of the game.
And, after missing the whole of last season because of back problems, the 26-year-old Ashish has served a reminder that he means business this time around with a breathtaking half-century, hitting seven 6s the other day, against CAG in the Moin-ud-Dowla Gold Cup limited-overs cricket tournament match at Gymkhana Ground.
“I am aware that this is the most crucial season as I chase my dream to play for India one day. I never felt it was all over because of the injury break, thanks to the complete support of my family, fellow players and the HCA officials,” said Ashish.
“Well, since my early days when I was coached by late Vijay Paul Sir, fortunately no one tampered with my natural game and so I keep playing without any inhibitions,” he said.
“I do hope that my all-round skills will help the team’s cause as this Hyderabad team should be one of the best in the Ranji Trophy this season given the kind of balance it has both in batting and bowling,” said Ashish even while looking forward to the role of chipping in with crucial breakthroughs with the pace trio of Chama Milind, Ravi Kiran and either Mohd Siraj (depending on his availability) or Mohammad Mudassir sharing the new ball.
“It is great to see Rayudu back in Hyderabad and leading the side too. He brings in a lot of experience and is essentially a team man. He is bound to bring lots of positive energy to the entire team given his never-say-die attitude,” Ashish said about playing under Rayudu.
For someone who admires South African great Jacques Kallis and to whom he bowled playing for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, Ashish is clearly determined to come up with some special performances to make an impact at the national level.