Charith Asalanka pulled off an absolute blinder to ship Rachin Ravindra packing throughout the second ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka. The sport, performed at Hamilton’s Seddon Park, noticed the hosts aiming to wrap up the sequence, whereas Sri Lanka fought tooth and nail to remain alive.
Shaky Begin for New Zealand, however Ravindra Stood Tall
New Zealand skipper Mitchell Santner determined to bat first after successful the toss. However issues didn’t begin nicely as Will Younger was again within the hut by the fifth over, leaving the Kiwis wobbling early on.
Then got here Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra to regular the ship. The duo added 112 runs, digging New Zealand out of bother. Ravindra, specifically, seemed like he was batting on a distinct pitch — fluent, calm, and in management.
Asalanka’s Second of Magic Modifications the Recreation
Every part appeared to be going New Zealand’s method till Charith Asalanka stepped up. Within the twenty third over, Wanindu Hasaranga bowled one which Ravindra tried to play off the again foot. It wasn’t timed nicely, and the ball went excessive towards cowl.
Asalanka, stationed at cowl, learn it completely. He leapt at simply the correct second, snatching the ball out of skinny air. The Hamilton crowd couldn’t consider it, and Ravindra, who was cruising at 79 off 63 balls, may solely stroll again shaking his head.
That catch modified the sport. Ravindra was in red-hot type, and his dismissal gave Sri Lanka an actual shot at pulling off an upset.
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Ravindra’s Kind a Massive Enhance for New Zealand and CSK
Regardless of the heartbreak of getting out, Rachin Ravindra’s type is likely one of the largest positives for New Zealand proper now. He smashed 45 off 36 within the first ODI and adopted it up with a cultured 79 on this sport.
With the ICC Champions Trophy across the nook, New Zealand will probably be thrilled to see him firing on all cylinders. And it’s not simply the Kiwis maintaining a tally of him — Chennai Tremendous Kings (CSK) followers will probably be excited too. Ravindra is more likely to open or slot in at No. 3 for CSK within the upcoming IPL season. If he carries this kind, he’ll be a game-changer for them.
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