New Zealand allrounder
Ravindra, who has emerged as a key figure in the New Zealand setup, noted that his admiration for the duo is shared by cricket fans globally. He highlighted their longevity, consistency, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments as the primary reasons for his respect. For the young Kiwi, the opportunity to observe and interact with these players has been a significant part of his professional growth.
Learning from the masters of the game
The New Zealand batter specifically pointed to the tactical nuances he has adopted by watching Kohli and Rohit. He noted that Kohli’s proficiency in handling bouncy conditions and Rohit’s clinical approach against spin bowling have served as essential blueprints for his own batting style. Beyond technical skills, Ravindra emphasized that he has sought to emulate their grit, determination, and fearless intent when facing challenging situations.
Ravindra’s rise to prominence was cemented during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where he scored 578 runs at an average of 64.22. While his performance placed him among the tournament's top run-scorers—alongside Kohli, who tallied 765 runs, and Rohit, who finished with 594—the allrounder remains humble about his standing. He insisted that he does not dwell on comparisons, maintaining that the established greats remain far ahead in terms of their career achievements and overall impact on the sport.
Building on New Zealand's recent success in India
Looking ahead to the upcoming tour, Ravindra expressed confidence in the New Zealand squad, buoyed by their recent 3-0 Test series victory in India. He described the series win as a major confidence booster, noting that previous tours of the subcontinent had often been defined by the struggle to win even single sessions against a formidable Indian side.
The upcoming ODI series, which is set to begin on October 22, 2026, will see Ravindra once again face a high-caliber Indian lineup. For the New Zealand allrounder, the focus remains on team contribution rather than individual milestones. He emphasized that the collective belief gained from their recent success in India will be vital as they look to maintain their momentum in the upcoming limited-overs fixtures.
