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New Zealand's top-order batter Rachin Ravindra recently spoke about the challenge Indian spinners will pose to the visitors in the upcoming three-match Test series. He also mentioned that the pair of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin has achieved tremendous success in Indian conditions.
He pointed out that Jadeja and Ashwin's ability to contribute with the bat makes it even tougher for touring teams. Rachin noted that the two seasoned spinners are capable of bowling tidy lines consistently, making it difficult for the batters.
Speaking at a media interaction ahead of the Test series opener in Bengaluru, Rachin Ravindra said (via TOI):
"They've got consistent bowlers who bowl in an area for a long period of time. I mean, you see the two spinners who play consistently, Ashwin and Jadeja, they're two very accomplished bowlers. You know, they can bat too, which makes it a little bit hard. They're consistent, they're good to battle, especially in this part of the world."
It is worth mentioning that Jadeja and Ashwin have 830 Test wickets among them. With 527 scalps, Ashwin is the second-highest wicket-taker for India in the format, only behind Kapil Dev, who leads the list with 619 wickets.
Acknowledging how it won't be an easy feat for New Zealand to fight it out with India in these conditions, Rachin Ravindra added:
"Obviously, we know how good India are in their own conditions, the quality of their bowlers and batters. It shows how hard it is for a team to come and win here. So, it's difficult."
India's home domination is second to none in recent times. The Men in Blue have not lost a Test series at home since 2012. Since then, the side have won 18 home series on the trot. New Zealand have played 36 Tests in India and have secured just two victories.
"As New Zealanders, we don't necessarily try and look at the opposition too much" - Rachin Ravindra
Rachin Ravindra suggested that New Zealand have a mindset where they don't give a lot of weightage to who the opposition is. However, he did emphasize that India have evolved significantly over the last few years by improving their overseas record.
The southpaw said:
"The brand of cricket they play is very positive, especially in their own conditions. The way they've evolved over the last few years has been amazing, especially away (from home). As New Zealanders, we don't necessarily try and look at the opposition too much. We know what a quality side they are and what they bring to the table, but I think if we're able to play our game and be consistent and put our best foot forward, hopefully, that will result in a win,"
Rachin Ravindra has achieved success in Indian conditions during the 2023 ODI World Cup and also had a stint with the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL). Expressing his excitement over playing Test cricket on the Indian soil, the talented youngster said:
"Although it is different formats, it gives you confidence that you can perform in this part of the world. I think it's (Test cricket) a different challenge entirely and it's something I'm really looking forward to. As you've seen, those two tournaments (ODI WC and IPL) were amazing, the crowds and the passion and the hype and the buzz around them. So, I'm excited to have a full-fledged series here."
The Test series opener between India and New Zealand is set to be played at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru from Wednesday, October 16.
