Published By: Sanchari Das

IND vs. NZ Test: Last Time When a Kiwi Batter Scored a Test Ton in India Before Rachin Ravindra

The Kiwis had toiled hard for twelve years, and Ravindra's knock will be remembered as the innings that broke the drought in India, reviving memories of Taylor's iconic century/p>

On the third day of the first Test, Rachin Ravindra made headlines by scoring a century on Indian soil after a long 12-year wait for New Zealand. Born in Bengaluru but representing Wellington, Ravindra played on familiar turf at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. His impressive innings, totalling 134 runs from 157 balls, showcased his grit and determination. With New Zealand leading by 356 runs, Ravindra's knock helped build a strong partnership with Tim Southee, giving India their largest first-innings deficit at home since 2013.

A well-timed hundred

Ravindra's century was special not only for its significance but also for how he achieved it. He faced 124 balls to bring up his hundred, hitting 11 boundaries and two sixes. This marked his second century in just 19 Test innings, following his first against South Africa earlier in the year. What made this moment even more memorable was that his family was present in the stadium, cheering him on. Facing India's formidable spinners like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra looked completely in control, showing footwork that belied his experience.

Rooted in Bengaluru, soaring for New Zealand

This century holds a special place in Rachin Ravindra's heart as he has roots in Bengaluru. It was a homecoming of sorts for the 24-year-old, who had made his Test debut against India in Kanpur in 2021. His calm, composed innings cemented his reputation as one of New Zealand's key players for the future. Ravindra became the 21st Kiwi to score a century in India, using the depth of the crease effectively and timing his shots perfectly. His standout performance in harsh conditions showed he was indeed in command.

Ross Taylor's memorable century in 2012

Before Ravindra's century, it was Ross Taylor who had last hit a ton for New Zealand in India. In 2012, during the second Test at the same venue—M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru—Taylor scored a brilliant 113 off 127 balls. His innings was pivotal in helping New Zealand reach 365 in their first innings. Taylor led from the front, playing captain's knock against India's strong bowling attack. His century featured 16 boundaries and two sixes, and it came when his team needed him the most.

A series to remember for Taylor

Ross Taylor's knock wasn't just any century. It came during a difficult series where New Zealand struggled against India's formidable lineup. Despite his heroics, New Zealand ultimately lost that match by five wickets, with Virat Kohli playing a vital role with 154 runs from two innings. However, Taylor's innings remained the highlight for the Kiwis in that Test series. He was New Zealand's highest run-scorer in the second innings, once again proving his worth under pressure. His performance in Bengaluru cemented his place as one of New Zealand's finest cricketers.

The 2012 Series

The 2012 Test series between India and New Zealand saw India dominate, but Ross Taylor's century was one of the few bright spots for the visitors. In that second Test match in Bengaluru, New Zealand posted 365 in their first innings, with Taylor's 113 being the backbone of their score. However, India responded strongly, putting up 353 runs, with Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin shining for the hosts. Despite Taylor's efforts, New Zealand was unable to defend their target of 261 runs in the second innings.

Taylor's legacy in India

Taylor's 113-run knock in Bengaluru remains one of his finest performances in Test cricket. His ability to perform in challenging conditions made him a standout player. In the 2012 series, Taylor was not only New Zealand's highest run-getter but also the fourth-highest overall, scoring 157 runs in two matches. Even though the Kiwis lost the series, Taylor's contribution was significant, and it set the bar high for future New Zealand players, including Rachin Ravindra, who would follow in his footsteps over a decade later.