"A left-hander taming Ashwin in India takes some doing" - Fans hail Rachin Ravindra for brilliant century in 1st IND vs NZ Test 2024
New Zealand batter Rachin Ravindra produced an incredible century to stun Team India on Day 3 of the first Test in Bengaluru on October 18. The 24-year-old, whose parents hail from India, began the day unbeaten on 22 with the Kiwis at a dominant 180/3 in response to India's 46 all-out in the first innings.
However, wickets fell in quick succession on the third morning, reducing New Zealand to 233/7. Ravindra then decided to take matters into his own hands, smashing almost all the Indian bowlers at will.
The southpaw brought up his second Test century off just 124 deliveries and eventually finished on 134 from 157 balls as the last man dismissed. Ravindra's magnificent knock included 13 boundaries and four maximums as the Black Caps took control of the contest.
The youngster has made a spectacular start to his international career, scoring an incredible 578 at an average of 64.22 in the 2023 ODI World Cup in India. His Test career has also taken off with an average of almost 45 in 10 outings.
Fans on X hailed Rachin Ravindra for his brilliant counter-attacking knock against the world-class Indian bowlers with the following reactions:
Fans continued praising Ravindra for his sensational batting display with one saying:
"What a player Ravindra is. A left-hander taming Ashwin in India takes some doing. Duckett ton there last year and Khawaja batted well there the year before that, from memory, but most struggle."
"Rachin Ravindra’s performance in the New Zealand Test history is certainly a moment to remember! His talent and determination showcase the bright future of New Zealand cricket," tweeted a fan.
"What an incredible performance by Rachin Ravindra! Scoring 134 runs against India is no small feat, especially in a Test match. His aggressive style really paid off. Excited to see how he continues to perform in the series," a fan said.
Rachin Ravinda's heroics put New Zealand in complete control of the 1st India Test
Thanks to Rachin Ravindra's century, New Zealand scored a massive 402 in response to India's 46 in the first innings. Apart from Ravindra, the Kiwis received valuable contributions from Devon Conway and Tim Southee, scoring 91 and 65, respectively.
After Day 1 of the first Test was washed out entirely due to rain, New Zealand dominated at all stages since to capture a 356-run first-innings lead.
Staring at an embarrassing innings defeat at home, India have begun their second innings looking more solid at 29/0 in nine overs.