NEW DELHI: New Zealand batsman Rachin Ravindra experienced a surreal moment hearing his name echoed by Indian fans during Thursday's World Cup victory over Sri Lanka.
The 23-year-old might find it less surprising when considering that the southern city was once home to his parents before they relocated to New Zealand.
Ravindra, emerging as one of the standout performers in the World Cup, contributed significantly with a score of 42 in New Zealand's five-wicket triumph, all but securing their spot in the semi-finals.
"It's a pretty surreal feeling," Ravindra told Star Sports.
"I am grateful for the support, especially playing in Bangalore. The crowd chanting my name is something I will never take for granted.
"I dreamt of it as a child. I feel very happy to be here, lucky enough it worked out."
With a first name reflecting his father's love of the game -- 'Ra' from Rahul Dravid and 'chin' from Sachin Tendulkar -- Ravindra has shown no sign of suffering any burden carrying the names of two of India's most famous cricketing sons.
He has three centuries at this World Cup and a tournament-leading 565 runs from nine innings at an average of a shade over 70.
"Six to 12 months ago, I wasn't even in the frame," he admitted.
He almost didn't get his opportunity at the World Cup, only named in the starting line-up when skipper Kane Williamson needed more time to recover from a knee injury.
"It's a funny one. I have idolised Kane. I have idolised a lot like Virat Kohli, Steven Smith, Joe Root.
"But Kane, his leadership, on and off the field, just keeps it calm."
India is proving a memorable place for Ravindra to visit.
In 2021, at the second Test in Mumbai, he held the catch that allowed teammate Ajaz Patel to become just the third bowler in history to take all 10 wickets in an innings.
It would have helped ease the bruising 372-run loss the Kiwis suffered.
"It was a nervy moment in my career. Lucky to have taken the catch," he said.
(With AFP Inputs)For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the
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