"Haven't heard my dad say to me, 'so proud of you' often" - Rachin Ravindra on his father's text message after IND vs NZ 2024 Test series whitewash
New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra recounted his father's text message to him after they completed a historic 3-0 Test series whitewash in and against India on Sunday, November 3. With the youngster's father texting him 'so proud of you,' Ravindra said he doesn't often do that.
The Kiwis stunned India by consigning them to a series sweep inside three days at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel ran riot with the ball in both innings, taking 11 wickets as India folded for 121 while chasing 147.
Speaking on SENZ's 'Scotty & Izzy' podcast, Ravindra recalled how hard his parents worked to shape his cricketing career, claiming that he would never take their efforts for granted.
"I haven't heard my dad say to me, 'so proud of you' often in my life, so it was nice to get that message when we won. Obviously I'm just very grateful for everyone in my inner circle. I was making him get up and he'd come and throw balls for me two hours before school. Mum getting me ready every day for school, training and games - that unconditional love, which I'll never forget. That's stuff I'll never take for granted," he said.
The left-handed batter had helped New Zealand secure a draw in Kanpur during the India tour in 2021. This year's series saw him emerge as the highest run-getter for the Kiwis with 256, including a best of 134.
"I think it's nothing like I've quite experienced before" - Rachin Ravindra on NZ whitewashing India
The 24-year-old acknowledged that the celebrations went to a different level in Mumbai after winning the final Test and that it's hard to quantify how special the occasion was. He added in the same interview:
"It was unbelievable. On the field, it was a different feeling. I think it's nothing like I've quite experienced before. Just seeing everyone's elation, running towards each other. Ajaz's sixth wicket, and being in Mumbai and seeing all the boys together in a huddle jumping around. It's hard to quite quantify, but it's pretty special."
The Black Caps will next face England in a three-Test series at home.