Tag: RachinRavindra

New Zealand’s triumph over India in the first Test was a testament to the team’s resilience and the brilliance of all-rounder Rachin Ravindra. Ravindra, who was born to Bengaluru parents in New Zealand, played a pivotal role in the Kiwis’ historic victory, scoring a magnificent 134 in the first innings and guiding his team to a comfortable win in the second.

Ravindra’s Indian heritage played a crucial role in his success against India’s formidable spin attack. “I have Indian heritage and have played a lot of cricket in India, which has helped me develop those game plans,” he said. “I am not a massive sweeper or reverse sweeper, so I stick to my strengths. I was able to play against the spin, and with fewer fielders on that side, it helped me accumulate runs.”

Ravindra’s ability to manipulate the length of the ball and get into good positions to score was evident throughout the match. “I was able to get some good practice in Chennai before this series, and that definitely helped,” he said.

In the first innings, Ravindra’s century helped New Zealand recover from a precarious position of 233/7 to post a respectable total of 402. His 137-run partnership with Tim Southee for the eighth wicket proved to be the turning point of the match.

In the second innings, Ravindra played a composed knock of 39* alongside Will Young (48*) to guide New Zealand to a comprehensive victory. India’s bowlers, led by Jasprit Bumrah, posed some challenges, but the Kiwis remained unfazed and chased down the target with ease.

Ravindra’s performance was a reflection of his hard work and dedication. “I have always been a student of the game, and I am always looking for ways to improve,” he said. “I am grateful for the opportunity to play for New Zealand, and I am determined to make the most of it.”

India’s bowlers fought valiantly for over 90 minutes, but Rachin Ravindra and Tim Southee’s blistering partnership before lunch propelled New Zealand to a commanding lead in the ongoing Test match.

After India’s dismal first innings total of 46, they needed a strong start with the ball. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah delivered, keeping the New Zealand batsmen in check with accurate bowling. They claimed the wickets of Glenn Phillips and Matt Henry, who appeared rattled and lacking confidence.

However, Southee, known for his aggressive batting, provided stability for Ravindra. Despite the previous two batters falling to straight deliveries, Ravindra remained composed, trusting his partner. Southee’s resilience allowed Ravindra to flourish, and he raced to his second Test century, his second international hundred in his hometown.

From the 70th over onwards, Ravindra accelerated, scoring 56 runs off 38 balls. He lofted Kuldeep Yadav for a six to reach his fifty and continued to push the boundaries. Southee, initially cautious, also joined the attack, hitting an overpitched delivery from Ashwin for a six.

Ravindra’s confidence soared as he dictated the terms to the bowlers. Southee, too, found his rhythm, waiting patiently for the right deliveries to attack. By lunch, the duo had added an unbeaten 112 for the eighth wicket, giving New Zealand a lead of 299 runs.

India’s bowlers, who had toiled tirelessly, were left frustrated by the late onslaught. Ravindra and Southee’s partnership, the second-quickest 100-plus stand against India, has put the visitors in a commanding position.