Rachin Ravindra all Set to don new role in Red Ball Cricket

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is poised to make a significant return to Test cricket after two years, as he prepares to feature in the middle-order during the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Ravindra, who was recently honored as the ‘Emerging Player of the Year’ at the ICC awards, is set to fill the spot left vacant by Henry Nicholls’ exclusion from the squad for the two Tests.

The 24-year-old made his Test debut in 2021 during the tour of India, where he played in both the Kanpur and Mumbai Tests. His most recent Test appearance was against Bangladesh at the Bay Oval in January 2022. Although he was part of the New Zealand squad for the recent Test series in Bangladesh, he did not make it to the playing XI for either match despite his prolific performance in the World Cup.

The New Zealand Test squad for the series against South Africa includes Tim Southee (c), Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke* (for the second Test only), Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, and Will Young.

Ravindra is one of two left-arm spinning options in the squad, with Mitchell Santner being the preferred spinner over Ajaz Patel. The squad also sees the absence of leg-spinner Ish Sodhi. Glenn Phillips, who had a successful series in Bangladesh, is in line to play his first home Test since his debut in the 2019-20 season against Australia.

New Zealand’s head coach Gary Stead expressed his satisfaction with the squad’s performance in Bangladesh and highlighted the contributions of players like Glenn Phillips and Mitchell Santner. He also praised Rachin Ravindra for his adaptability and learning abilities in various roles within the team over the past year.

In the fast bowling department, Canterbury fast bowler Will O’Rourke has earned a maiden call-up to the Test squad, but he will be available only for the second Test. His selection follows his inclusion in the New Zealand ‘A’ side for the four-day games against Australia A and his recent ODI debut.

The squad also marks the return of Tom Blundell, Kane Williamson, and Kyle Jamieson, who have recovered from their respective injuries and are expected to be fit for the start of the series. The first Test is scheduled to commence on February 4 at the Bay Oval.

Coach Gary Stead emphasized the significance of the upcoming Test series, acknowledging the competitive nature of the South African team and the challenges they pose. He highlighted the importance of the series in the context of a crucial year of Test cricket for New Zealand, both at home and abroad.

Gary Stead said, “It was pleasing as a selector to see different players making contributions during the recent series in Bangladesh.”

Gary Stead added, “Glenn and Mitch both earned selection on the back of their recent work in red ball cricket. They continue to work on their games to contribute across formats and situations.”

Gary Stead further stated, “Rachin Ravindra is another player who has really impressed us with his contributions to the team over the past 12 months in international cricket. We’ve been particularly pleased with his ability to adapt and learn in different roles.”

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