New Delhi, Oct 15: Top-order batter Rachin Ravindra said that nullifying the twin threat posed by senior spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will be crucial to New Zealand’s success in the three-match series against India.Ashwin and Jadeja together have grabbed over 800 Test wickets, and are among the most experienced bowling pairs in world cricket at present.
“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,” Ravindra told reporters here on Monday.
“They’re consistent, they’re good to battle, especially in this part of the world. 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,” he added.
Ravindra banked on his previous experience of playing cricket in India to come good in the upcoming Test rubber.
The Kiwi played in this part of the world during last year’s ODI World Cup before appearing for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2024.
“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,” he noted.
From a team perspective, the 24-year-old said the tourists will have to keep focus on their game plans rather than worrying about India’s approach.
“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,” he added.
New Zealand’s preparation for the series against India has been far from ideal as they lost 0-2 against Sri Lanka recently, while their one-off Test match against Afghanistan was a washout at Noida.
However, Ravindra was confident that the team can lean upon the learnings from those experiences against India.