Published: Feb 05, 2024, 09:51 AM (IST)
Edited: Feb 05, 2024, 09:51 AM (IST)
Rachin Ravindra of New Zealand continued his amazing run in international cricket on Monday, smashing his maiden double-century to assist the Kane Williamson-led team achieve a big first innings total against South Africa. Tim Southee and his teammates reached 477-7 in 141.3 overs at Mount Maunganui’s Bay Oval in the opening Test of the series. Carrying his overnight total of 118 into Day 2 of the series opener, all-rounder Ravindra soared above the 150-run barrier to put New Zealand ahead at lunch.
South Africa’s Ruan de Swardt broke the long partnership between former New Zealand captain Williamson and Ravindra, taking his first Test wicket at the Bay Oval. Williamson smashed 118 off 289 balls to lead the hosts to 271-3 in 94.5 overs before Ravindra took over and cemented his place in New Zealand cricket history.
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Ravindra concluded his batting performance with the greatest score for a first Test century by a New Zealander. Prior to Ravindra’s batting masterpiece against South Africa, Mathew Sinclair set the previous record by reaching 214 in 1999. Interestingly, Ravindra is the fourth New Zealand batsman to get a double century after scoring his first Test century.
The 24-year-old was the Black Caps’ best performer at the ICC World Cup 2023 in India. The breakthrough World Cup hero scored hundreds against England, Australia, and Pakistan in the ICC tournament last year. Rachin accomplished his double century in 340 balls, earlier he also received the title of emerging talent of the 2023 season from the International Cricket Council (ICC). Ravindra blasted 21 fours and one six in his exciting innings against the Proteas. Ravindra-inspired New Zealand scored 511 in 114 overs against the visitors. Ravindra battled to get a Test spot for more than two years before the South Africa series. The Kiwi all-rounder played just three games before the series opening, scoring 73 runs in six innings.
