‘Exciting Times Ahead for Both Youngsters’: Sachin Tendulkar Hails Rachin Ravindra, Sarfaraz Khan for Scoring Centuries

Sachin Tendulkar lauded centurions Rachin Ravindra and Sarfaraz Khan for their remarkable performances in the first Test between India and New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

Rachin, with roots in Bengaluru, scored his second Test century, guiding New Zealand to a first-innings total of 402 after India was bowled out for a shocking 46, their lowest Test total at home. His knock of 134 was laced with 13 boundaries and four sixes, making him the first New Zealand player to score a Test century in India since 2012.

On the other hand, Sarfaraz Khan registered his maiden Test hundred during India’s second innings. He and Rishabh Pant put together an unbroken 113-run partnership for the fourth wicket before rain interrupted play. At the break, India was 344/3 after 71 overs, with Sarfaraz unbeaten on 125* and Pant on 53*.

Tendulkar, expressing his admiration on X (formerly Twitter), wrote: “Cricket has a way of connecting us to our roots. Rachin Ravindra seems to have a special connection with Bengaluru, where his family hails from! Another century to his name.”

He also applauded Sarfaraz, saying, “What an occasion to score your first Test century when India needed it most! Exciting times ahead for these talented youngsters.”

Sarfaraz, who resumed from 70, played with flair, finding gaps with clever backfoot cuts and slices. Pant, after a patient start, shifted to an aggressive approach, hitting Southee and Ajaz Patel for big sixes.

Sarfaraz reached his hundred with a backfoot punch, celebrating with enthusiasm as the crowd rose to its feet. Pant followed suit, reaching his fifty in 55 balls, showcasing his determination despite an earlier knee injury.