Rachin Ravindra makes heads turn — New Zealand's top wicket-taker now with his bowling New Zealand’s all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has transformed his role from a batting-focused player to a key wicket-taker with his bowling, marking a significant shift in his career. Once plagued by struggles against spinners during his IPL 2024 stint with Chennai Super Kings, where his batting was heavily impacted by spin bowling, Ravindra has since found new success with the ball. His recent performances in the T20 World Cup 2026 have positioned him as a standout performer, with his bowling now dominating the spotlight. Ravindra’s rise to prominence came after a period of self-reflection and adaptation. The 26-year-old, who was dropped mid-season by CSK due to his inability to handle spin, has since worked extensively on refining his bowling skills. His efforts have paid off, as he has emerged as New Zealand’s top wicket-taker in the tournament with 11 dismissals in eight matches. His ability to consistently trouble batters, particularly left-handed ones, has been a key factor in his success. Two more wickets in the final against India would secure his place as New Zealand’s joint highest wicket-taker in a T20 World Cup edition, surpassing Daniel Vettori’s record. The left-arm finger spinner’s effectiveness has been highlighted by his economical bowling, with an average of 6.88 runs per over. While he trails behind Varun Chakaravarthy and Adil Rashid in the tournament’s wicket-taking race, Ravindra’s consistency and tactical awareness have made him a crucial asset for the Black Caps. His ability to read the game and adapt to different conditions has been praised by coaches and teammates alike. Sriram Krishnamurthy, global head coach of CSK academy, has been a vocal supporter of Ravindra’s bowling talent.#t20_world_cup_2026 #new_zealand #rachin_ravindra #chennai_super_kings #sriram_krishnamurthy
