Categories
Rachin Ravindra made history with a spectacular century against Bangladesh in New Zealand’s second game of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on February 24. His incredible knock not only secured the Black Caps a spot in the semi-finals alongside India but also made him the first cricketer ever to score a century on debut in both the Cricket World Cup and the Champions Trophy.
Ravindra’s century came after an unexpected return from an unusual facial injury sustained during a fielding mishap in the initial game of a tri-series against Pakistan earlier this month. The injury kept him out of action for three consecutive matches, including New Zealand’s tournament opener against Pakistan. However, he made a roaring comeback, stepping in for Daryl Mitchell, who was sidelined due to illness.
Batting at number four after New Zealand’s shaky start, with both Will Young and Kane Williamson dismissed for single-digit scores, Ravindra steadied the innings. He forged a crucial 57-run partnership with Devon Conway for the third wicket before teaming up with captain Tom Latham to add 129 runs for the fourth wicket.
Ravindra’s innings of 112 off 105 balls, combined with Latham’s steady 55 off 76, laid the foundation for a comfortable victory, propelling New Zealand into the knockout stage.
The 25-year-old’s century against Bangladesh adds to his already impressive record in ICC events. Ravindra had scored a debut World Cup century against England in the 2023 opener at Ahmedabad, marking the start of his meteoric rise in international cricket.
In just 30 ODI innings, he has accumulated four centuries, all in ICC tournaments — including memorable tons against Australia and Pakistan during the 2023 World Cup. This feat makes him the fastest New Zealand player to score four centuries in ICC events, surpassing legends like Kane Williamson and Nathan Astle.
Additionally, Ravindra is now the second-fastest player globally to achieve four centuries in ICC competitions, trailing only India’s Shikhar Dhawan. At 25, he has also surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the most centuries in international tournaments at such a young age.
Ravindra’s standout performance in the 2023 Cricket World Cup saw him amass 578 runs in 10 innings — the highest tally by a tournament debutant. His ability to perform on the biggest stages has cemented his status as one of cricket’s brightest young stars.
His rise to stardom has been nothing short of extraordinary. Born to Indian parents who migrated to New Zealand, Ravindra grew up idolizing cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. His name itself is a blend of the two icons, a testament to the cricketing passion that runs deep in his veins.
His journey through domestic cricket was marked by perseverance and consistent performances, eventually earning him a place in the national squad. Known for his elegant stroke play, calm demeanor, and ability to anchor innings under pressure, Ravindra has quickly become a fan favorite.
As he continues to break records and set new milestones, cricket analysts have already begun comparing Ravindra to some of the greatest all-rounders in the game. His bowling skills, while still developing, add an extra dimension to his game, making him a valuable asset in all formats of cricket.
Teammates and coaches often praise Ravindra’s work ethic and humility. Despite his rapid success, he remains grounded and focused on constantly improving. He regularly trains for long hours, fine-tuning his technique and building mental resilience to handle high-pressure situations.
Fans worldwide have embraced Ravindra as a rising superstar, and his social media following has exploded in the past year. Young cricketers look up to him as an inspiration, and his story serves as a reminder that dedication and passion can turn dreams into reality.
Beyond cricket, Ravindra has expressed interest in giving back to the community. He has spoken about using his platform to support grassroots cricket in both New Zealand and India, aiming to nurture the next generation of talent. His vision extends beyond personal achievements, focusing on growing the sport globally and making it more accessible to aspiring players.
As the ICC Champions Trophy progresses, all eyes will be on Ravindra to see if he can carry his exceptional form into the semi-finals and potentially the final. Should New Zealand lift the trophy, it would be a crowning moment in his already glittering young career — a testament to his talent, determination, and love for the game.
With each match, Ravindra continues to write his legacy, and cricket fans are fortunate to witness the emergence of a player who could go on to define an era. The cricketing world waits eagerly to see what the future holds for this extraordinary talent, but one thing is certain: Rachin Ravindra’s journey has only just begun.
