New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is banking on his recent experiences in India to help him navigate the challenging subcontinent conditions as he gears up for the much-anticipated three-match Test series. At just 24 years old, Ravindra has already made an impact during last year’s ODI World Cup in India and also secured an IPL contract with Chennai Super Kings.
Now, as he prepares for his first major red-ball outing in India, Ravindra is confident that his past performances will serve him well in the longer format. Despite New Zealand not having the luxury of a practice game before the first Test in Bengaluru, Ravindra is drawing positives from the team’s recent experience in similar conditions.
The Black Caps’ recent Test series in Sri Lanka, though ending in defeat, provided the squad with crucial exposure to the spin-friendly pitches they are likely to encounter in India. Reflecting on this, Ravindra expressed optimism during a press conference, noting the team’s solid preparation.
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“Not being able to play a warm-up match against Afghanistan in Noida was a bit disappointing, as it would have been a useful build-up. But it’s rare for a New Zealand team to have six consecutive Tests in subcontinent conditions. It’s an amazing opportunity not only to push for wins but also to grow individually and as a team,” Eachin Ravindra shared, emphasizing the rare chance to fine-tune their approach in conditions that often trouble foreign teams.
Rachin Ravindra acknowledges the differences between Sri Lanka and India in terms of playing conditions but remains confident that the general experience of handling spin will be beneficial.
“The pitches in Sri Lanka and India are different, but both demand skill in facing spin. Sri Lanka is a quality side in their own backyard, and while the conditions are different, the lessons we learned there will definitely come in handy here in India,” he added.
NZ ready to put up ‘strong fight’ against ‘accomplished’ Ashwin, Jadeja: Rachin Ravindra
· Ahead of the three-match Test series against India, Rachin Ravindra feels that facing accomplished spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will be a challenging task for the… pic.twitter.com/MoIx7WTAPO
— IANS (@ians_india) October 14, 2024
A significant takeaway for Rachin Ravindra is the importance of individual game-plans and adaptability. He believes that success in India will come from players sticking to their own methods, rather than trying to emulate others.
“It’s about staying true to yourself as a player. We have great players like Kane [Williamson], Tom Latham, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell, each with their own approach. It’s important to find your own method and trust it. That’s going to be crucial in these upcoming Tests,” he said.
Ravindra also highlighted how his performances in white-ball cricket — particularly during the World Cup and IPL — have boosted his confidence heading into the Test series.
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“Although it’s a different format, performing well in Indian conditions in white-ball cricket gives you belief. The crowds, the pressure, the expectations — they’re all part of the challenge, and it’s something I’m looking forward to again,” he explained.
With cricket in India known for its fervent fanbase and electric atmosphere, Ravindra is eager to soak it all in. He understands the excitement that surrounds the sport in India and believes that his past experiences will provide a solid foundation for the challenges ahead. “Coming back to India for a full Test series is special. The crowds, the passion — it’s always intense, and I’m excited to be part of it,” Ravindra concluded, embracing the opportunity.
