Rachin Ravindra with roots in Bengaluru says ‘odds are in my favour’ after horic NZ win against IND | Cricket News
Rachin Ravindra’s connect with his Bengaluru roots grew stronger as he led New Zealand to a landmark win over India at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Sunday.
Born in Wellington to parents hailing from the Garden City, Ravindra headlined the Kiwis’ first Test win in India in 36 years crafting a first-innings hundred (134) and remaining unbeaten on 39 in a tricky 107-run chase. The 23-year-old picked up the Player of the Match award and said, “It’s (Bengaluru) is a nice city, was a nice wicket to bat on, guess odds are in my favour.”
During last year’s ODI World Cup in India, Ravindra smashed a 94-ball 108 against Pakan at the same venue. He was later picked up the Chennai Super Kings for the IPL season and scored a brisk half-century against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the ground in May.
“With the role I do, I always have a chance to play more in the subcontinent than anywhere else in the world. I’m lucky enough to have pretty special debuts in India. Every experience I’ve had coming here has been a cool one,” Rachin had told The Indian Express last year as he reflected on the coincidence of his journey unfolding in a country where his roots belong.
Ravindra also credited the facilities at CSK’s academy in Chennai for his adept display against the Indian attack in the first Test.
“It’s a combination of form and preparation. As long as I’m clear and know my plan, it helps. Know when to go forward or back helps, so does getting into good positions. When you have six subcontinent Tests coming up, you do extra work – indoors, put some mats down, or head out and do some training,” he said.
“Luckily, it all worked out today. Was trying to get a feel of different pitches, red- and black soil while preparing in Chennai, and figure out what positions I can get in and guards I can take to different bowlers. it was a great set-up there, got an open wicket, different wickets, nets everyday, net bowlers everyday, invaluable experience. Grateful for those guys putting it on,” Ravindra explained during the post match presentation.
