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'Allowed Me To Play My Game': Rachin Ravindra Credits Two CSK Teammates For His Prolific IPL Debut

Rachin Ravindra's blistering knock laid the foundation of CSK's successful chase (IPLT20.com)Rachin Ravindra's blistering knock laid the foundation of CSK's successful chase (IPLT20.com)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) kicked off their IPL 2024 season with a thumping six-wicket victory against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) on past Friday at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. A crucial figure in this victorious tournament opener was none other than Rachin Ravindra, who made a memorable IPL debut.


Rachin names the calm heads that guided his path in IPL 2024 opener

Rachin Ravindra displayed his fielding skills like a seasoned pro and snagged two critical catches to send RCB's leading men, Virat Kohli and Faf du Plessis, back to the pavillion.

Not stopping there, he unleashed a whirlwind batting performance, smashing a quickfire 37 off just 15 balls, which included three boundaries and as many sixes. His explosive innings set the stage for CSK's successful chase of the 174-run target laid down by RCB.

Reflecting on the match, Ravindra humbly credited the cohesive performance of his team, highlighting the pitch's condition as conducive to their strategy and praising the steadying influence of teammates like Ajinkya Rahane and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. He mentioned the collective effort to remain calm under pressure, allowing him to play his natural game.

"Yeah, I think it was a pretty complete performance by us. Obviously, the wicket was a good one and we sort of held our nerve. I mean it helped having the guys sort of finish the innings and batting with guys like Rahane and Rutu, very calm heads. So, allowed me to kind of play my game,” said Ravindra.

Brushing off any early labels as a star, the dynamic all-rounder pointed out the importance of adaptation and intent in switching from red-ball to white-ball cricket. He noted the valuable training days leading up to the match and the mentorship from seasoned players in the team as critical factors in his performance.

“I wouldn't call myself a star just yet, but I guess it's just the adapt piece. Luckily we had sort of four or five days of good training to get into it and it's just an intent thing as well. I find it easier probably going red ball to white ball because your positions are quite similar and it's just about trying to bring that calming presence, trying to slow the game down. Something that I think this team is very good at doing and such great senior guys in the change room to learn from,” added the young all-rounder.

The debutant also shared his initial uncertainty about his form during practice but expressed satisfaction in trusting his preparation and backing himself on the field.

He acknowledged the first catch he took as a moment that eased his nerves, expressing gratitude for the chance to experience the electrifying atmosphere and support from the fans firsthand.

“It was nice to get that first catch. Takes a little bit of the edge away, a little bit of the nervous energy, but it was cool to just be out there, and experience this amazing crowd and the fans for the first time. So thank you to all who turned up,” concluded Rachin.

With his debut performance setting a high bar, fans and teammates alike will be eagerly watching to see if he can replicate his success in the upcoming clash against Gujarat Titans on Tuesday, March 26, in Chennai