Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @rachinravindra
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have come under criticism for allowing Rachin Ravindra to practice at the CSK Academy before the Test series against India. Robin Uthappa argued that the franchise should prioritize national interests.
Ravindra emerged as New Zealand’s top scorer in their 3-0 series victory over India, accumulating 256 runs at an average of 51.20, including a century.
Although CSK had released Ravindra before the IPL Auction, they still provided him access to practice at the academy, which helped him adapt to Indian conditions and excel in the series.
Uthappa, a former CSK player, expressed his disapproval, emphasizing that while it’s commendable for the franchise to care for their players, a boundary should be established when national interests are involved.
“Rachin Ravindra came here and practised at the CSK Academy. CSK is a beautiful franchise that will always look after its franchise players, but a line has to be drawn where the interest of the country comes ahead of your franchise players, especially when he is a foreign player and comes and plays against our country,” Uthappa stated on his YouTube channel.
He acknowledged CSK’s consistent support for their players but advised that such decisions be reconsidered in the future. “I am not surprised that CSK always go over and above for their players, but somewhere in that kindness… when it comes to the country, there should be a line somewhere where we do not cross that line,” Uthappa added.
Despite his criticism, Uthappa praised Ravindra’s performances, particularly highlighting his century in Bengaluru as one of the finest by an overseas player in India.
“On the basis of that preparation, Rachin Ravindra batted brilliantly. One of the best knocks by an overseas player. On that wicket, 134 off 157 balls, it was solid batting. He then showed that he is the future of New Zealand cricket,” Uthappa concluded.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
