Rachin Ravindra delivered a stunning performance with the bat on Day 3 of the 1st Test against India, securing his second century in Test cricket on Friday (October 18). His innings, which came at a critical time, helped New Zealand recover from a tricky position and take control of the match at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Ravindra, who reached his milestone in just 124 balls, showcased his growing stature in the Test arena, especially on challenging Indian pitches. His century not only rescued New Zealand but also put India on the back foot.
Rescuing New Zealand from a Tough Spot: Rachin Ravindra’s knock
New Zealand found themselves in a tough spot at 233/7 early on Day 3, with India looking to capitalize on their morning momentum. Ravindra at this crucial juncture and took the responsibility to steady the innings. His early partners fell victim to India’s pace and spin attack, but Ravindra remained calm. He played with poise and precision, rotating the strike and picking his moments to attack. His patient approach helped New Zealand rebuild, gradually pushing their total past 300. His century was not just a personal milestone but a crucial rescue effort for the Kiwis.
Mastering spin and playing Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja
Facing India’s potent spin duo, Ravindra Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, on a two-paced pitch is no easy task, but Ravindra made it look manageable. Using the depth of his crease and quick footwork, he expertly dealt with the spinners, cutting and driving with elegance. He timed his shots to perfection and played both off the front and back foot. The way he tackled Ashwin’s variations and Jadeja’s accuracy showcased his adaptability and technical skill. His century, which included boundary-strokes to bring up the milestone, was a lesson in how to combat high-quality spin bowling.
A vital partnership with Tim Southee
While Ravindra was the star of the show, his partnership with Tim Southee was equally crucial in turning the game in New Zealand’s favor. The pair came together when India had all the momentum, but their attacking intent before lunch shifted the balance. They put on the second-fastest century stand against India in Tests, piling the pressure back onto the hosts. Southee, known for his lower-order hitting, complemented Ravindra’s solidity at the other end. Together, they blunted India’s bowling attack and ensured New Zealand moved into a commanding position at the end of first session.
Also READ: Interesting facts about William O’Rourke: From IPL rejection to dismissing Virat Kohli for a duck
Here’s how fans reacted:
Last time Rachin helped NZ save a Test in India by his blockathon… 3 years later, he is playing a masterclass with the tail to give them a historic Test win in India.
— arfan (@Im__Arfan) October 18, 2024
The way Rachin handled the situation is a mark of what he can become eventually. Didn’t let the effort of Conway go in vain too. Made the Indian attack look very lackluster #INDvsNZ
— skbshots (@skbshots) October 18, 2024
Test century number two for Rachin Ravindra!
It comes from 124 balls with 11 fours and 2 sixes. Pushing the team towards a big lead in Bengaluru. Follow play LIVE in NZ on @skysportnz or @SENZ_Radio LIVE scoring | https://t.co/yADjMlJjpO 📲 #INDvNZ #CricketNation 📸 BCCI pic.twitter.com/rshaKAYyDI
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) October 18, 2024
Rachin Ravindra has indeed scored a fifty during the Test match in Bengaluru against India. This knock has been described as crucial and splendid, especially given the context that Bengaluru is a familiar city for him. His performance has been well-received, with spectators and…
— V (@bunny07____) October 18, 2024
I have watched a *lot* of cricket over the years but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen better batting than what we just saw from Rachin Ravindra. #INDvNZ
— Joshua Arbury (@Jarbury) October 18, 2024
Rachin Ravindra, what a player, what a hundred! Felt India would’ve sniffed a comeback at NZ 220 odd for 7 but Rachin and Southee are putting NZ in a commanding position
— Ammar (@Ammarzaheer) October 18, 2024
What a wonderful young talent this #RachinRavindra is. When the going was tough this morning he showed his class in defence and then attacked with gusto and skill to take the game away from India
— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) October 18, 2024
Bit of Rahul bit of Sachin in that innings of Rachin. 😊
👏👏👏👏
— Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) October 18, 2024
Century! What a superb ton! A very quick scoring century for Rachin Ravindra.
Looked in absolute control and has helped push India deep in a corner in this Test!#INDvNZ
— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) October 18, 2024
Well played, Rachin Ravindra 😊#cricket #INDvNZ #RachinRavindra #Test #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/lbGX6i2ygX
— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) October 18, 2024
Rachin Ravindra is heading the Steve Smith arc no question on that. Came in to the New Zealand team as a bowler batting at 7-8 and now showing his worth as a batter in the middle order !
— Troll cricket unlimitedd (@TUnlimitedd) October 18, 2024
Also READ: 3 teams who can target William O’Rourke in IPL 2025 auction
For latest cricket news & updates, visit CricketTimes.com.
