Rohit Sharma Hails Rachin Ravindra’s Winning Knock Against India

October 20, 2024: Rohit Sharma lauded Rachin Ravindra for his outstanding match-winning performance as New Zealand defeated India by eight wickets in the opening Test at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Ravindra’s brilliant century, scoring 134 runs in the first innings, played a pivotal role in securing the Black Caps’ first Test victory on Indian soil in 36 years. His crucial knock helped New Zealand post a commanding lead of 356 runs after India was bowled out for just 46.

Ravindra was named Player of the Match for his incredible innings, and his century marked him as the first New Zealand batter to score a Test century in India since Ross Taylor’s hundred in 2012.

At the post-match press conference, Rohit praised Ravindra’s ability to play his natural game and confidently take on the Indian spinners. He acknowledged that the Indian bowling attack had tried to contain him, but Ravindra’s fearless approach and precise shot selection helped him navigate the challenging conditions.

Rohit reflected, “Our spinners tried and did everything possible to extract whatever was there on the pitch. Some of the shots that Rachin played were really, really good. He understood what our spinners tried to do and did not back off from playing his natural game, which is what gave him the result against our quality spinners.”

Rohit also drew parallels between Ravindra’s innings and previous notable performances by visiting players in India, such as Ollie Pope’s 196-run knock during England’s 28-run victory in Hyderabad. He highlighted how visiting batters often attempt to counter Indian spinners by playing aggressively and executing different strategies.

“We saw in the first Test of the England series where a couple of the batters scored hundred,” Rohit remarked. “Even here, Rachin and Devon Conway played well and put our bowlers under pressure by playing different shots.”

The second Test is scheduled to begin on Thursday, October 24, at the Maharashtra Cricket Stadium. India will look to bounce back from the defeat as New Zealand aims to maintain their momentum in the series.