Sachin Tendulkar Lauds Rachin Ravindra and Sarfaraz Khan for Centuries in India-New Zealand Test
Ravindra's 134 puts NZ ahead, while Sarfaraz's maiden Test ton rescues India from lowest home score
Former legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar has praised Rachin Ravindra and Sarfaraz Khan for scoring centuries in the first Test between India and New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. New Zealand batsman Rachin, who is from Bengaluru, scored his second Test century and helped the visiting team score 402 runs in the first innings while bowling out India for 46, their lowest Test score on home ground. He scored 134 runs with the help of 13 fours and four sixes. He also became the first New Zealand batsman to score a Test century in India since 2012.
On the other hand, Sarfaraz scored his first Test century in India's second innings on Saturday, leading the team along with Rishabh Pant. The duo shared an unbroken 113-run partnership for the fourth wicket before rain halted play in the first session and forced an early lunch break. With Sarfraz (125 not out) and Pant (53 not out) at the crease, India were 344/3 in 71 overs.
"Cricket has a way of connecting us to our roots. Rachin Ravindra has a special bond with Bengaluru, where his family comes from! Another century to his name," Tendulkar wrote on Instagram.
"And Sarfraz Khan, what a moment to score your first Test century, when India needed it the most! Exciting times ahead for both these talented youngsters," he added.
Coming on 70, Sarfraz brought up his hundred in spectacular fashion - a backfoot punch off Saurabh clears the in-field for four - with the right-handed batsman running in with his bat held high and his hands raised. He then took off his helmet, roared and swung his bat in style.
Before Pant hugged him, the spectators in the stadium stood up to welcome his incredible innings. Pant was out after scoring 99 runs off 105 balls with the help of nine fours and five sixes. He missed the century by one run.