'Idolised them for years': Rachin reveals how Kohli and Rohit have shaped his batting

India's Virat Kohli, left, and Rohit Sharma (PTI Photo)

For Rachin Ravindra, the journey from an awe-struck youngster sharing the field with his cricketing idols to an established international allrounder has been one of learning, resilience and quiet evolution.

Yet, even as the New Zealand batter continues to carve his own identity, the influence of Indian greats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remains etched into his game.With

Kohli

and Rohit set to feature in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand, Ravindra acknowledged how the duo has inspired generations across the cricketing world. “Everyone around the world who has followed cricket will be crazy about Rohit and Virat. I certainly am, too. They have done it for such a long time, won trophies and remained consistent while creating some fantastic moments.

They are two players I have idolised for years, modelled parts of my batting on and learnt little things from,” Ravindra said.

For Ravindra, Kohli’s mastery in bouncy conditions and Rohit’s command against spin offer valuable lessons in adaptability, temperament and intent. “Watching the way Virat plays in bouncy conditions and the way Rohit plays spin has influenced me in several ways. Beyond technique, it is about their grit and determination.

Kohli’s hundreds in challenging situations and Rohit’s free-flowing, fearless approach at the top are qualities I try to take from both.

So, picking their brains a little bit over the years has been fantastic,” he said.Ravindra’s own breakthrough came during the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, where he amassed 578 runs at an average of 64.22. Kohli finished with 765 runs and Rohit with 594.The remarkable campaign brought Ravindra into cricket’s next celebrated elite.

However, the 26-year-old doesn’t want to overthink such comparisons. “It is a privilege to be mentioned in that conversation, but the original Fab Four are streets ahead of us at the moment. Their records are fantastic, and they remain great players and idols of mine. Ultimately, my priority is to contribute to the team. That matters more than individual accolades or the number of runs I score,” he said.

New Zealand, meanwhile, will draw confidence from their historic 3-0 Test series triumph in India last year.

Ravindra believes that victory, achieved against a formidable home side, will strengthen the Black Caps’ belief.“Beating such a quality team in its own conditions gives you enormous confidence. Previous tours to India were difficult, and sometimes we were fortunate to win a session, rather than a match. To win three games against a side featuring Rohit, Virat, Ashwin and

Ravindra Jadeja

was a proud moment,” he said.(Watch India tour of New Zealand live and exclusive on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV starting Oct 22, 2026)