Following a scintillating performance against England in the inaugural match of the World Cup 2023, New Zealand's young sensation, Rachin Ravindra, has earned high praise from Indian cricket legend Anil Kumble. The Indian spinner drew a comparison between Ravindra and the iconic Yuvraj Singh during his early cricket days.
Stepping up in the absence of skipper Kane Williamson, Ravindra showcased sheer brilliance with a masterful knock. His unbeaten 123 off just 96 deliveries steered the Kiwis to a dominant nine-wicket victory over England. Alongside the equally impressive Devon Conway, who crafted an unbeaten 152, the duo made quick work of the 283-run target, securing the win with a considerable 82 balls to spare. The lethal left-hand partnership ensured a crushing defeat for England and signaled New Zealand's intent in the tournament.
Ravindra's century, coming on his ODI World Cup debut, was not only a testament to his talent but also etched his name in the record books. He joined the elite club of cricketers scoring a century on their World Cup debut. Furthermore, his mammoth partnership with Conway set the stage for New Zealand's emphatic win in the 2023 World Cup curtain-raiser.
Previously, the 23-year-old prodigy had hinted at his batting prowess during the warm-up game against Pakistan, narrowly missing a century with a score of 97. Reflecting on Ravindra's stellar innings against England, Kumble, in a conversation with Cricinfo, couldn't help but notice similarities between the young all-rounder and Yuvraj Singh's elegant play during his youthful days.
"We saw what he's capable of in that warm-up game (against Pakistan) when he opened the batting. But this was very special, you know, in his World Cup debut against the defending champions to back the way he did. This was my first sort of treat of Rachin Ravindra. He looks a bit like Yuvraj Singh, a young Yuvraj Singh in his flow. Very elegant. So wonderful," said Kumble.
Emphasizing the elegance and fluidity of Ravindra's innings, Kumble stated that watching the young all-rounder in action was truly special, drawing parallels with Yuvraj's iconic style. With such commendations coming his way early in the tournament, the cricketing world will surely be watching Rachin Ravindra's journey in the World Cup with keen interest.
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