All-rounder Rachin Ravindra has received his maiden call-up to the New Zealand Test squad for their England tour.
Rachin, along with Devon Conway and Jacob Duffy, are the only uncapped players in a 20-member squad.
The Kiwis will play 2 Tests in England, with the first Test at Lord’s starting on June 2.
For long, Rachin has been earmarked as the next big thing in New Zealand cricket.
Rachin’s father, Ravi Krishnamurthy is a software professional from Bengaluru who migrated to New Zealand.
He is also, a Level 3 certified coach by New Zealand Cricket and this has obviously helped Rachin hone his skills.
According to reports, Krishnamurthy is friends with former India pacer Javagal Srinath with whom he continues to stay in touch.
If selected, Ravindra will become the youngest New Zealand Test player to make his debut since Ish Sodhi, who was 20 against Bangladesh in 2013.
Ravindra is a left-hand batsman and also a slow orthodox left arm spinner.
New Zealand coach, Gary Stead is a big admirer of Rachin.
“Rachin’s been earmarked as a star of the future since his Under-19 days.”
“He’s obviously an opening option, but also has the ability to bat in the middle order which combined with his left-arm finger spin make him a great asset to our squad.
New Zealand Test squad
Kane Williamson (captain), Tom Blundell, Trent Boult, Doug Bracewell, Devon Conway, Colin de Grandhomme, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Ajaz Patel, Rachin Ravindra, Mitchell Santner, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling (wicket-keeper), Will Young.