New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is shifting focus from white-ball cricket to red-ball preparation as he gears up for a demanding Test series in the subcontinent against India and Sri Lanka. After a period dominated by shorter formats, Ravindra and his teammate Ben Sears recently arrived in Chennai for a preparatory camp. They are set to join the rest of the New Zealand Test squad ahead of their one-off Test against Afghanistan, beginning on September 9, followed by two Tests in Sri Lanka and three further Tests in India later this year.
Reflecting on his recent training, Ravindra noted the value of the red-ball winter camps held in New Zealand, where players from both the Test team and New Zealand A came together. Locations for these camps included Mount Maunganui, Tauranga, Christchurch, and Lincoln, where players honed their skills on conducive pitches. "It’s been good to be together... especially given that the Test team has been away for a little while," Ravindra shared, highlighting the importance of team bonding and preparing for conditions unique to the subcontinent.
Ravindra has had notable experiences in India, including a resilient performance on his Test debut, where he faced a formidable Indian spin attack to help salvage a draw. As he prepares for another series against India, he acknowledges the challenges posed by their quality, especially on home turf. "Whenever you play India in a three-match Test series, it’s always going to be difficult... We’ll look to take the lessons learned from the last series," he remarked, alluding to the diverse conditions across the venues of Bangalore, Pune, and Mumbai.
With a focus on adapting to spin-heavy attacks, Ravindra urges his teammates to maintain an "open mind" and learn from subcontinental batting techniques. He emphasised the need for New Zealand players to integrate these experiences while relying on their strengths and game plans.
Ravindra’s recent cricket journey has been rich with achievements. He played a key role in winning the Major League Cricket (MLC) title in the USA and was the tournament's most successful spinner. His experiences with high-profile players, including legends like Ricky Ponting, have enriched his understanding of the game, underscoring the importance of preparation and mental resilience.
As New Zealand navigates a transitional phase following the retirements of stalwarts like Ross Taylor and BJ Watling, Ravindra emphasises the strength of New Zealand's domestic cricket structure. He believes that the competitive environment fosters talent and readiness, enabling fringe players to elevate their game to the international level.
While some players are moving towards lucrative T20 franchises, Ravindra remains steadfast in his commitment to the national team. "For me, playing for New Zealand at the moment is what I see fit for myself," he stated, highlighting a collective respect and understanding among teammates regarding their career choices.
As Ravindra prepares for the upcoming Tests, he embodies the blend of youth and experience that New Zealand cricket seeks, ready to face the challenges of the subcontinent with an optimistic mindset.