New Zealand’s batting sensation Rachin Ravindra, revealed that his record-breaking century in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 opener against England was inspired by watching the footage of Indian cricket legends Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid.
His unique name, cleverly crafted from 'Ra' of Rahul Dravid and 'chin' from Sachin, reflects his father's profound love for the game, which eventually paved the way for his cricketing journey. Ravindra’s parents relocated from Bengaluru to New Zealand years ago.
Well, Ravindra lived up to his name by delivering a spectacular performance for New Zealand, as the 23-year-old played a stormy knock of 123* off 96 balls, comprising 11 fours and 5 sixes, to help his team kickstart the CWC 2023 campaign with a 9-wicket win over the defending champions England.
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Rachin Ravindra said after being adjudged Player of the Match: “I think those two are pretty special cricketers. Obviously, I've heard a lot of stories and watched a lot of footage and I guess the influence from my parents and the old-school Indian cricketers was pretty cool.”
He further added, “Being able to watch a lot of their highlights and stuff. Obviously, I idolised Sachin Tendulkar. I guess being a lefty, there's guys you look at, I love (Brian) Lara, I love (Kumar) Sangakkara, just the usual gun left-handers.”
Speaking about his maiden World Cup hundred, the Wellington-born Ravindra said, “I think a hundred is always special, but I guess in terms of being able to perform in India is pretty cool. It's cool to have the Indian roots.”
He concluded, “It was also nice to have my parents there watching and they flew over from New Zealand. So, it's cool to have that moment and obviously it's always nice coming to India. I have a sense of family connection whenever I'm in Bangalore and being able to see my grandparents.”
(With AFP Inputs)
