IND vs NZ – Rachin Ravindra shares credits of Kanpur with Ajaz Pate: New Zealand’s Indian-origin spinner Rachin Ravindra, who played a pivotal role in helping his side draw the first Test against India, said he was quite nervous about how the game would pan out as far as his bowling was concerned.
The 22-year-old Rachin Ravindra, in the company of Indian-born Ajaz Patel (2 off 23 balls), held a 91-ball vigil that yielded 18 runs for him to save the match for his side which was nine down in pursuit of 284 on the final day here.
IND vs NZ: Humble Rachin Ravindra shares credits of Kanpur heroics with Ajaz Patel, says ‘We did it together bro’
Ajaz Patel, who was born in Mumbai, played for the first time in the country of his birth. He also picked up three wickets in the game even though Ravindra went wicket-less.
IND vs NZ 1st Test: Sachin Tendulkar praises New Zealand’s last pair for playing 52 balls on Day 5
The 33-year-old Patel interviewed Rachin Ravindra for the New Zealand cricket team’s official Twitter handle and recalled his own Test debut.
“We did it together bro” – Rachin Ravindra and @AjazP share a special moment after play at Green Park. #INDvNZ pic.twitter.com/n2968pHDsf
— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) November 29, 2021
“I remember my first Test match, I was really nervous, and my hands were shaking when I first got the ball. How was it for you?” Ajaz Patel asked.
Ravindra candidly admitted to having nerves of his own.
“I felt a bit nervous bowling wise. We were about four down in first innings when I was next, so definitely felt a few butterflies (that time), but I think after a few balls, I did what I do. Luckily it ended up okay,” said Wellington-based player.
IND vs NZ: Humble Rachin Ravindra shares credits of Kanpur heroics with Ajaz Patel, says ‘We did it together bro’
Ravindra has already a lot of attention for his Indian roots and his first name which is inspired by Indian greats Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. The youngster said he enjoyed playing in front of Indian fans.
“Being able to play in India in front of crazy fans. Glad to have done that. My mum and dad have been such big influences on my career. I am sure that they are proud,” said Rachin Ravindra.
IND vs NZ : “We did it together bro,” he signed off, sharing a smile with Patel. The second and final Test of the ongoing series will be played in Mumbai from December 3.
