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In a remarkable display of skill and determination, New Zealand's emerging talent, Rachin Ravindra, etched his name in the record books by scoring his maiden double-century in Test cricket during the opening Test against South Africa in Mount Maunganui.
Ravindra's Dominance:
Ravindra, a left-handed batter, achieved this milestone on Day 2 of the match, becoming only the second New Zealand batter to score a Test double-hundred against the Proteas. His innings, an impressive 240 runs off 366 balls, included 26 fours and 3 sixes.
Stellar Partnerships:
Entering the crease with New Zealand at 39/2, Ravindra played a pivotal role in steering the team forward. Teaming up with captain Kane Williamson (118), the duo forged a formidable 232-run partnership. Ravindra's brilliance was not limited to Day 1; he continued to shine on Day 2, forming century stands with Daryl Mitchell and an 82-run partnership with Glenn Phillips.
Career Milestones:
Playing in his fourth Test and his first in over two years, Ravindra showcased his all-around skills. Prior to this match, he had amassed just 73 Test runs, with 18 being his highest score. Now, he has raced to 313 runs in this innings and has an impressive First-Class record, accumulating 2,993 runs at an average of 39-plus, including seven centuries and twelve fifties. His left-arm spin has also contributed to 54 FC wickets.
Record-Breaking Feats:
Ravindra's double-century, now the third-highest Test score by a batter operating at four or lower on New Zealand soil, places him in elite company, behind only Brendon McCullum and Martin Crowe. Additionally, he recorded the highest maiden Test hundred by a New Zealand player.
Historic Partnership:
The partnership between Ravindra and Williamson, amounting to 232 runs, stands as the second-highest for a New Zealand pair against South Africa in Tests (for any wicket). This accomplishment places them just behind Stephen Fleming and James Franklin, who added 256 runs in the 2006 Cape Town Test.
Landmark Achievement:
Ravindra's double-century makes him the second New Zealand batter to achieve this feat against South Africa, joining Stephen Fleming. This puts him in exclusive company with the likes of Mahela Jayawardene, Virat Kohli, and Brian Lara as number-four batters with Test double-tons against South Africa in the 21st century.
Emerging Cricketer of the Year:
Rachin Ravindra's stellar performances have not gone unnoticed. Last month, he was honored as the ICC Men's Emerging Cricketer of the Year 2023. His impactful contributions during the ICC ODI World Cup, where he scored 578 runs at an average of 64.22, including three centuries, established him as a rising star in international cricket.
In conclusion, Rachin Ravindra's remarkable double-century has not only set the stage for a thrilling Test match but has also solidified his status as a cricketing sensation, with a promising future ahead.
