The current 2023 World Cup has already generated some breakout talents who are sure to dominate headlines in future seasons.
Rachin Ravindra is one such star that has captivated the globe with his outstanding performances for New Zealand. With 565 runs in nine innings at an average of 70.62 and a strike rate of 108.44, the teenager leads the World Cup in run-scoring. He has three centuries and two fifties to his name.
In addition, Ravindra has contributed with the ball, taking five wickets at a 5.67 economy rate. He hasn’t been bad on the field either, and his left-arm spin has occasionally allowed the Kiwis to go in a bowler short.
Given his versatility, Ravindra will undoubtedly attract some interest in the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. The talented all-round player has previously been linked to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), and the team may be an ideal match.
Here are three reasons why the Royal Challengers Bangalore must sign Rachin Ravindra for the IPL 2024 season.
3. Rachin Ravindra’s Bangalore Connection
RCB have virtually always had some players from their native state of Karnataka, however this has been decreasing in recent years. Manoj Bhandage was the only one who added local flavor to the brand in the previous season.
Rachin Ravindra without a doubt identifies himself as a Kiwi as he has emphasized in press conferences. Nevertheless this 23 year old talent also takes pride in his heritage. It’s worth noting that while his parents hail, from Bangalore and were raised there even his grandparents continue to reside in the city.
Out of all the cities in India Bangalore holds a place, in Ravindras heart. Although he won’t technically be considered a player fans will still find it easy to connect with him on some level.
Furthermore, Ravindra seemed to like playing in M Chinnaswamy Stadium. He produced a handful of aggressive innings and contributed with the ball in New Zealand’s final two group stage matches against Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
2. RCB’s IPL 2024 Need A Left-Arm Spinner Who Can Bat Left-Handed
RCB battled with the makeup of their playing XII in IPL 2023. They frequently had to field Shahbaz Ahmed in order to have a left-arm spinner, and the southpaw failed to produce in either category.
Bangalore also tried out left-handed batsmen Anuj Rawat and Mahipal Lomror to bolster their middle order, but both attempts were unsuccessful. Despite their alleged spin-hitting abilities, neither player impressed much, with the franchise frequently relying on Glenn Maxwell to pull them out of problems.
Given Shahbaz’s continually poor performances, RCB will almost certainly search elsewhere for a more dynamic left-arm spinner who can also bat, preferably left-handed. Rachin Ravindra absolutely matches the bill.
While it is unclear whether the overseas combination will allow Ravindra to play in the XII, he will be a valuable asset if he is able to secure a spot.
1. Rachin Ravindra’s Versatility Against Pace and Spin
Overseas players in the IPL don’t frequently check this box, but Rachin Ravindra appears to be equally effective against both pace and spin. While there isn’t much evidence to suggest he’ll be great against bowlers on a regular basis, he’s technically solid against both kinds and can always improve his offensive game.
Ravindra has been incredibly effective, with his sweep and slog sweep techniques, during the 2023 World Cup. When facing spinners he hasn’t allowed himself to get stuck and has confidently executed attacking shots on both sides of the field. Whats impressive is that despite being 23 years old he seems to have time to play aggressive shots even against fast bowlers.
While Ravindras technique isn’t flawless yet there may be some flaws that emerge. However his strong foundation suggests that any challenges he faces are unlikely to trouble him for long.
Faf du Plessis and Virat Kohli lead the RCB’s pace attack. They struggled to find spin-hitters in the lineup last year, so finding an international player who can handle both will be a priority. Rachin Ravindra steps forward.