How a Bengaluru-Born Cricketer Became a World Cup star with his stunning century
The ICC World Cup 2023 kicked off with a bang as New Zealand’s young sensation, Rachin Ravindra, dazzled the cricket fans with his brilliant performance. He scored a scintillating century in just 82 balls and took a vital wicket to help his team defeat the defending champions, England, in the opening match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. He became the youngest player to score a hundred for New Zealand in ODI World Cup history and displayed his versatility as an all-rounder.
At the age of 23, Rachin Ravindra has already impressed the cricketing fraternity with his skill and temperament. He is one of the key players for New Zealand in the World Cup, which is being hosted by his ancestral country, India. He said in a recent interview, “It is a dream come true to play a World Cup in India. My parents are from Bangalore, and I have a lot of relatives here.”
A Cricketing Legacy from India
Rachin Ravindra was born on November 18, 1999, in Wellington, New Zealand, but he has a strong connection to India. His parents are of Indian origin and belong to Bangalore. His father, Ravi Krishnamurthy, is a software architect who used to play club cricket in Bangalore before moving to New Zealand. Rachin Ravindra’s family has a rich academic background as well. He is the grandson of Dr. T.A. Balakrishna Adiga, a renowned biology professor who taught at prestigious institutions like Vijaya College and BASE in Bangalore.
Rachin’s name also reflects his father’s love for cricket. He was named after two of India’s greatest batsmen—Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. This name carries a lot of expectations and respect in the cricketing world and shows his family’s passion for the game.
A Fan Turned Player: An Inspiring Journey
Rachin Ravindra’s journey to the World Cup stage is an amazing story of determination and hard work. He had a memorable experience of watching the 2019 World Cup final between New Zealand and England in a pub in Bengaluru. He was in India on an annual tour with his father’s cricket club. He witnessed New Zealand’s agonizing loss to England in a nail-biting finish.
That night changed his life forever. He decided to pursue his dream of playing for New Zealand and representing them in the next World Cup. From being a fan cheering for New Zealand in a Bengaluru pub during the 2019 World Cup final to being a star performer in the 2023 World Cup, Rachin’s journey has been “awesome,” as he put it.
Cricketing Debut and Early Career
Rachin Ravindra made his international debut for New Zealand in September 2021, starting his cricketing career on a high note. His talent and dedication earned him recognition and admiration.
His exposure to cricket in India and his upbringing in a cricket-loving family played an important role in shaping his cricketing career. He represented New Zealand in the U-19 World Cup twice, in 2016 and 2018.
The year 2021 saw Rachin Ravindra make his debut in T20Is against Bangladesh. He also made his Test debut, proving his ability in the longest format of the game. However, his biggest achievement was his ODI debut in the 2023 World Cup, where he created history with his stunning century.
Rachin Ravindra, the 23-year-old all-rounder from New Zealand, has made a sensational start to his Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign. He scored a stunning unbeaten 123 runs in the opening match against England, leading his team to a convincing victory. His name, which is a tribute to two of India’s cricketing legends, reflects his family’s passion for the game and his connection to both India and New Zealand.
A Splendid World Cup Debut
Rachin Ravindra made his World Cup debut in style, smashing an unbeaten 123 runs off just 93 balls in the first match of the tournament against England. He came in at No.3, replacing the injured Kane Williamson, and took full advantage of the opportunity. He formed a massive partnership of 262 runs with Devon Conway, who scored 152 runs, and helped New Zealand chase down England’s total of 282-9 with 13.4 overs to spare.
Ravindra’s brilliant knock included 12 fours and six sixes, and he was awarded the Man of the Match for his outstanding performance. He also contributed with the ball, taking one wicket for 38 runs in his 10 overs. His all-round display marked him as one of the most promising talents in the tournament.
The Inspiration Behind His Name
Rachin Ravindra’s name has a special meaning. It is derived from the names of two of India’s greatest cricketers—Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. His father, Ravi Krishnamurthy, was a huge fan of these two batting maestros and decided to name his son after them. The name “Rachin” is a combination of “Ra” from Rahul and “Chin” from Sachin.
This name, which honors two of India’s most revered cricketers, signifies his family’s love for cricket and his roots in both India and New Zealand.
His Love Life and Social Media Presence
Rachin Ravindra’s personal life is also in the spotlight. He is dating Premila Morar, a fashion designer who lives in Auckland, New Zealand. According to Premila’s Instagram bio, she is currently 22 years old. The couple has been together for more than three years and often posts their pictures together on social media.
Conclusion
Rachin Ravindra’s journey from a cricket-loving family with roots in India to becoming a star performer for New Zealand is an inspiring story of talent, hard work, and passion. His magnificent century in the World Cup opener has made him a household name and a player to watch out for in the tournament. His name, which pays homage to two cricketing legends, reflects the enduring love for cricket that unites fans across countries.
