Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway combined for an unbroken 273-run partnership, leading New Zealand to a massive 9-wicket victory in the 2023 World Cup opener. In the World Cup’s opening game, New Zealand displayed complete dominance, seeking redemption for their loss in the 2019 World Cup final against England.
In this eagerly awaited curtain-raiser for the 2023 edition, the Black Caps clinched a convincing nine-wicket victory, causing concerns for England’s title defense. Despite missing star batsman Ben Stokes due to a hip injury, England batted first and set a total of 282/9. Nevertheless, this score proved to be vastly inadequate as the Kiwis chased it down with nine wickets in hand.
New Zealand showcased their batting excellence by reaching the required total in just 36.2 overs, accumulating 283-1. Devon Conway, who concluded the match unbeaten at 152, and Rachin Ravindra, also unbeaten at 123, played crucial parts in this dominant triumph.
Their remarkable 273-run partnership for the second wicket was a nearly perfect batting exhibition, making England’s total look insufficient. It’s worth mentioning that New Zealand achieved this accomplishment without their captain, Kane Williamson, who is still recuperating from a knee injury.
Conway’s century, achieved in 83 balls, became New Zealand’s fastest century in a World Cup, albeit for a short time. The 23-year-old all-rounder, Rachin Ravindra, then eclipsed this record by completing his century in just 82 balls. The victory was sealed when Sam Curran removed Will Young for a golden duck, solidifying New Zealand’s success in a match that featured outstanding performances.
Conway made history by becoming the fastest New Zealander to reach 1000 runs in ODIs. He achieved this milestone in just 22 innings, surpassing the previous record held by Glenn Turner and Daryl Mitchell, who took 24 innings to reach 1000 runs.
Rachin Ravindra joins in elusive list
Rachin Ravindra made history by becoming one of the youngest players ever to score a century in their first World Cup match. At just 23 years and 321 days old, Ravindra joins a select group of players who have had a spectacular impact in their debut World Cup appearance.
Virat Kohli achieved this remarkable feat at the age of 22 years and 106 days during the 2011 World Cup, which remains a record to this day. Nathan Astle, also from New Zealand, is another notable name on this prestigious list, achieving it at the age of 24 years and 152 days in the 1996 World Cup against England.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
