New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is gearing up for a crucial Test series in the subcontinent, eager to build on his growing reputation as one of the Black Caps’ key players. The last time Ravindra played a Test in India was in 2021, when he was still finding his feet in the squad. Since then, he has blossomed into one of New Zealand’s most promising talents, particularly following his stellar performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he amassed 578 runs and clinched the ICC Emerging Player of the Year award.
His recent maiden Test century against South Africa in Mount Maunganui further solidified his standing. As New Zealand prepares for six upcoming Test matches in the subcontinent—one against Afghanistan, two in Sri Lanka, and three in India—Ravindra’s role will be pivotal.
The subcontinental conditions, known for spin-friendly pitches, will test his skills, but Ravindra is leaving no stone unturned in his preparation. Currently training at the Chennai Super Kings’ High-Performance Centre, he’s working hard to acclimatize to the conditions he will face in the coming months.
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“It’s been a great few days here in Chennai, getting used to the red and black soil pitches we might encounter. When you watch subcontinental batters, you see how they hold their shape longer in those lower positions against spin. As Western cricketers, we’re trying to incorporate that into our games,” Rachin Ravindra explained in an interview with The Hindu.
New Zealand’s upcoming Test series against India is undoubtedly the highlight of their schedule. The matches will be played in Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai, with the first Test set to begin on October 16 and the final one on November 1. Despite the daunting challenge of facing India on their home turf, Ravindra remains optimistic about New Zealand’s chances.
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“It’s always tough to play India in a three-match Test series, especially in their own backyard. They’re a world-class team, particularly in red-ball cricket at home. But we’ve learned a lot from our last series here, and hopefully, we can give them a real challenge,” Rachin Ravindra added confidently.
As the series approaches, all eyes will be on Ravindra to see if he can continue his remarkable rise and help New Zealand make their mark in the subcontinent.
