NEW DELHI: In-form New Zealand batsman Rachin Ravindra is anticipating a thrilling face-off against World Cup hosts India in the semi-final at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium on Wednesday, with a spot in the final at stake.
Ravindra, emerging as a standout player in his debut World Cup, holds the second spot on the tournament's leading scorers list, having amassed an impressive 565 runs in nine innings.
Dreaming of playing against India in front of a full crowd at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, Ravindra, who will celebrate his 24th birthday the day before the final, expressed his excitement and confidence.
"We'll stay level, we'll try our best. We know we can't win every game of cricket...but we'll see how it plays out."
Ravindra has left a significant impact with the bat during the tournament, achieving a century in his debut appearance against England. He followed it up with triple figures against Australia and Pakistan, earning praise and recognition. Born in New Zealand to Indian parents, Ravindra described the experience of hearing his name chanted by local crowds as "surreal."
"I'm very honoured," he said, reflecting on being awarded the ICC's Player of the Month. "If you look at the names nominated on that list, it's pretty special to be among the greats of the game. I don't necessarily play for personal accolades, but the recognition is always nice from the governing body."
Emphasising his team-oriented approach, Ravindra highlighted the importance of contributing to winning cricket. "Doing it for the team, that's the beauty of it. You might end up with that award a few times in your career, but I think if you're contributing to winning cricket, that's what matters to me."
(With inputs from Reuters)
