India all-rounderNitish Kumar Reddyfound himself at the centre of online criticism following the second ODI againstNew Zealandin Rajkot, but former India batterHanuma Viharihas stepped in to back the 22-year-old, calling out the trolls and questioning the rush to judge him harshly.

Nitish had a limited role in the match, scoring 20 off 21 balls and adding a valuable 50-run partnership withKL Rahul, which helped India reach a competitive total of 284. With the ball, however, he bowled just two overs, conceding 13 runs, and was not used again by captainShubman Gill. The limited bowling opportunity triggered questions on social media about his place in the XI and his overall impact as an all-rounder.

Vihari responded forcefully on social media, asking critics to name another Indian cricketer of Nitish’s profile who can bat and bowl seam at this level. Highlighting Nitish’s age and achievements, Vihari reminded fans that the youngster already has a Test century in Melbourne — a feat few can claim.

Citing Nitish’s numbers across formats, Vihari pointed out that his returns as a fourth seamer in Tests and his batting contributions in limited-overs cricket are far from insignificant for a 22-year-old still finding his feet at international level. He urged patience, stressing that branding him a “bits and pieces” cricketer so early in his career was unfair.

India’s assistant coachRyan ten Doeschate, however, offered a more measured assessment after the match. He admitted that while Nitish is seen as a player for the future, the all-rounder has not always maximised the opportunities given to him so far. Ten Doeschate said that players in Nitish’s position must make the most of extended time at the crease to strengthen their case for selection.

So far, Nitish has featured in three ODIs, scoring 47 runs and bowling 7.1 overs without a wicket. While his numbers remain modest, voices like Vihari’s underline the belief within Indian cricket that the young all-rounder deserves time, clarity of role and sustained backing rather than early judgement.