Australia’s spinner Nathan Lyon has showered praise on New Zealand’s all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, predicting a bright future for the budding talent. Ravindra’s notable performance, including a crucial half-century on Day 3, has garnered Lyon’s admiration as New Zealand endeavors to chase down a daunting 369-run target against Australia.
During the third day’s play at the Basin Reserve Ground in Wellington, Ravindra’s unbeaten 56 off 94 deliveries, embellished with eight boundaries and a six, showcased his prowess. Lyon, speaking post-match, lauded Ravindra’s exceptional display, affirming his belief in the young player’s potential to ascend to stardom.
Expressing his thoughts on the pitch conditions favoring spin in New Zealand, Lyon highlighted the commendable performance of Glenn Phillips, who clinched a five-wicket haul on Day 3. Phillips’ contribution aided New Zealand in dismissing Australia for 164 runs in their second innings.
Lyon said: “You got to give respect and credit where credit’s due, I thought Rachin and Daryl played superb innings there. Rachin seems like a really good player, first time I have bowled to him. Watched a lot of him during the World Cup and he’s going to be a superstar. He played very well there.”
“Great day of Test cricket. I am a big fan when the ball spins obviously. I thought Glenn bowled pretty well to take five wickets, hats off to him. Pretty good day. (Surprised to see spin in New Zealand?) No, not after watching that Test against South Africa. When they left Mitch Santner out, I was pretty surprised. I am not sure where that Test was but I was at home licking my lips.”
Lyon himself played a significant role, emerging as Australia’s top-scorer in the second innings with a resilient 41 runs, albeit coming in as a night watchman on Day 2. His contribution helped set a challenging target of 369 runs for New Zealand in the first Test.
With New Zealand requiring 258 more runs to clinch victory in the Wellington Test, anticipation builds for a potential triumph over their rivals in Test cricket, a feat they haven’t achieved since 2011. As the Test unfolds, all eyes remain on Ravindra’s promising journey and New Zealand’s pursuit of victory against Australia.
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