“We did it together bro” - Rachin Ravindra to Ajaz Patel over match-saving stand in 1st India vs New Zealand Test

New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has described the last few overs of the 1st Test against India in Kanpur as “quite nerve-wracking”. The Indian-origin cricketer also added that he was glad to play in front of crazy fans.

The last-wicket pair of Ravindra (18* off 91) and Ajaz Patel (2* off 23) batted resolutely for 8.4 overs on Day 5 as New Zealand escaped with a draw in Kanpur.

The duo discussed the match and their game-saving partnership in a video posted on the Kiwis' official Twitter handle. Patel asked debutant Ravindra:

“I remember my first Test match, I was really nervous, and my hands were shaking when I first got the ball. How was it for you?”

The 22-year-old replied:

“I felt a bit nervous bowling wise. We were about four down in first innings when I was next, so definitely felt a few butterflies (that time), but I think after a few balls, I did what I do. Luckily it ended up okay.”

Ravindra also admitted that he was happy to have played a role in saving the Test in India, a country with which he has a special connection for obvious reasons. He stated:

“Being able to play in India in front of crazy fans. Glad to have done that. My mum and dad have been such big influences on my career. I am sure that they are proud.”

The Wellington-born cricketer was quick to add:

“We did it together bro (referring to his partnership with Patel).”

In another video posted on Twitter, Ravindra added about the memorable partnership:

“It was quite nerve-wracking. I guess we (he and Patel) somehow managed our nerves together. It’s a moment I will never forget.”

Chasing 284, New Zealand lost their ninth wicket (Tim Southee) on Day 5 with a little over eight overs of play left. However, Ravindra and Patel held their nerves commendably to keep the Indian spinners at bay in the dying stages of the Test.

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“Kind of stuff you dream about as a kid” - Rachin Ravindra

Having managed to pull off the somewhat unthinkable against a fancied Indian bowling line-up in conditions that suited the home side, Ravindra was asked how he would look back at the effort.

He replied:

“I think I was actually alright in the end, I knew my process, my training, and I backed myself to do it. You are kind of pretty focussed, taking in the crowd, you know, how loud they were. It’s the kind of stuff you dream about as a kid. You watch test matches like that and that’s where your heroes and your idols are made.”

The second Test of the India-New Zealand series will be played at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai from December 3.