New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra Shines with Crucial Century in Bengaluru Test Against India

In a gripping contest on day three of the first Test match between India and New Zealand in Bengaluru, New Zealand gained a significant advantage, leading by 125 runs. Rachin Ravindra emerged as the star of the day, scoring a magnificent 134 runs, which helped his team reach a total of 402 in their first innings.

Ravindra’s innings was notable not only for its masterful execution but also for the context in which it occurred. Beginning the day at 22, he struck an impressive tally, including 13 fours and four sixes. His partnership with Tim Southee added a substantial 137 runs for the eighth wicket, with Southee contributing a lively 65 runs including five fours and four sixes.

“Scoring an overseas hundred in India is always nice,” commented Ravindra, reflecting on his innings. “It probably meant a lot and felt really good to share it with my mate Timmy [Tim Southee],” he added.

The New Zealand innings saw significant contributions from Devon Conway as well, who was the second-highest scorer with 91 runs from 105 deliveries. Indian bowlers Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav claimed three wickets each.

India, recovering from a disastrous first innings total of 46, their third-lowest in Test history, stood at 231 for 3 by the close of play. Sarfaraz Khan and Virat Kohli made valiant efforts with the bat, scoring unbeaten 70 and 70 runs respectively. Indian captain Rohit Sharma made a noteworthy contribution of 52 runs before Ajaz Patel dismissed him and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal in quick succession.

Ravindra’s approach to handling India’s formidable spin attack was a highlight of the day’s play. Displaying an unconventional yet effective style, Ravindra successfully scored against R Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravindra Jadeja, aggregating 101 runs from 95 balls faced against the spinners.

“You see teams around the world, the way they’re scoring; it just feels natural,” Ravindra remarked on the fast-paced approach that has become part of modern Test cricket. “Especially in Test cricket, it feels like you always have to drive the team forward and score runs,” he further explained.

Ravindra’s performance was particularly poignant given his personal ties to Bengaluru, where his family originates. “A lot of my family are watching at the stadium and at home on TV,” he shared, expressing the pride his relatives felt while witnessing his century in the city of his parents’ birth.

Preparations in Indian conditions prior to the tour seem to have served Ravindra well. “Invaluable experience,” he stated, alluding to his practice sessions with the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL and training on local wickets to hone his skills.