New Zealand batsman Rachin Ravindra had a special moment during his team’s win over Sri Lanka in the World Cup on Thursday. The 23-year-old, who has Indian roots, heard his name being chanted by the fans in Bengaluru, and he admitted it felt “surreal”. Ravindra, who has three centuries at this World Cup, is one of the breakout stars of the tournament. He has scored 565 runs from nine innings at an average of over 70.
After the match, Rachin Ravindra told Star Sports, “It’s a pretty surreal feeling. I am grateful for the support, especially playing in Bangalore. The crowd chanting my name is something I will never take for granted. I dreamt of it as a child. I feel very happy to be here, lucky enough it worked out.”
Ravindra’s first name reflects his father’s love of the game. “Ra” is from Rahul Dravid and “chin” is from Sachin Tendulkar. Ravindra has shown no sign of suffering any burden carrying the names of two of India’s most famous cricketing sons.
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“Six to 12 months ago, I wasn’t even in the frame,” Rachin Ravindra admitted. He almost didn’t get his opportunity at the World Cup, only named in the starting line-up when skipper Kane Williamson needed more time to recover from a knee injury. “It’s a funny one. I have idolised Kane,” Ravindra said. “I have idolised a lot like Virat Kohli, Steven Smith, Joe Root. But Kane, his leadership, on and off the field, just keeps it calm.”
I’m living the dreams , leading run scorer in WC that’s to in India.
Great atmosphere, good win, thank you to all the fans for your support 🇳🇿 #NZvsSL pic.twitter.com/Gh7bWfgOrK— Rachin Ravindra (@RachinRavindra_) November 9, 2023
India is proving a memorable place for Rachin Ravindra to visit. In 2021, at the second Test in Mumbai, he held the catch that allowed teammate Ajaz Patel to become just the third bowler in history to take all 10 wickets in an innings. It would have helped ease the bruising 372-run loss the Kiwis suffered.
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“It was a nervy moment in my career,” Rachin Ravindra said. “Lucky to have taken the catch.”
Rachin Ravindra is living the dream in this World Cup. He is the leading run scorer and has been a key player for New Zealand. He is also enjoying the support of the Indian fans, which is a special feeling for him.
