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Rachin Ravindra, a New Zealand batsman, played a crucial role in the third day of the Bengaluru Test match against India. His remarkable 134-run knock, predominantly scored on the on-side, was a testament to his adaptability and skill against spin bowling. Ravindra's unique approach, which eschews the conventional sweep shot commonly employed by visiting batters in India, allowed him to effectively counter the Indian spinners and put pressure on the hosts. His success was largely attributed to his strong wrists, which allowed him to generate power and placement through the midwicket region and long on, where he garnered 67 of his 78 runs on the on-side.
Despite facing a pitch that offered minimal turn, Ravindra's challenge lay in rescuing New Zealand from a precarious position. His crucial partnership with Tim Southee, worth 137 runs, revitalized the New Zealand innings and allowed them to push back against India's efforts to gain control. Ravindra's approach, which involved a calculated blend of defensive and attacking strokes, impressed both his teammates and opponents. His ability to adapt to the conditions and execute a well-defined game plan was highly praised, particularly by Kuldeep Yadav, the Indian bowler who came close to dismissing him on a couple of occasions.
Ravindra's performance highlights his growth and improvement over the past two years. His preparation for the tour, which included intensive training at the Chennai Super Kings academy, has evidently paid dividends. The experience of facing different pitches and bowling styles has honed his skills and allowed him to develop effective strategies against spin. Ravindra's connection with Bengaluru, the city where his family originates and where he holds a World Cup century, has been further strengthened by his latest impressive display. This memorable knock has added a new chapter to his story, and with the series still in its early stages, he is likely to remain a focal point for the Indian bowlers.
Source: Ravindra's wristy knock adds new chapter to his Bengaluru story