Rachin Ravindra did not get a single match for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the ongoing IPL 2026, but the young New Zealand star still feels that his time in India was very important for his career.
Before leaving for India for New Zealand’s upcoming Test series against Ireland and England, Ravindra revealed how much he learned during his stay with Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026.
Rachin Ravindra turns bench time into learning experience in IPL 2026
New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra was mostly seen supporting the team from the dugout and carrying drinks during matches this season. But instead of getting discouraged, Rachin used that time to learn from some of the greatest and most experienced players around him.
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One player who made a huge impact on him was KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane. Rachin said Rahane’s experience of playing Test cricket in England and Australia helped him understand a lot about batting in difficult overseas conditions.
The Kiwi batsman also spent time with KKR coach Abhishek Nair, who previously worked with the Indian team as assistant batting coach. Former Australian star Shane Watson was also part of the support staff and shared valuable advice with the players during the season.
Ajinkya Rahane and Abhishek Nair leave quite an impression on Rachin Ravindra
“There are benefits to playing and training cricket. There are massive benefits to being in the IPL as well. I mean, you get a chance to talk to someone like Ajinkya Rahane, who is a lovely guy who has played so much cricket overseas, scored centuries at Lord’s and played so much cricket against England and Australia,” ESPNcricinfo quoted Rachin Ravindra as saying.
The youngster further added, “Coach (Abhishek Nair) used to be the assistant batting coach for India. You’ve got Shane Watson, who is our batting coach, who has played a lot for England and has trained a lot of people who have played for England.”
Kiwi star says IPL is more than just playing matches
Apart from this, Rachin Ravindra also got a chance to talk with Virat Kohli and KL Rahul during the IPL matches, he said that these conversations were a big learning experience for him ahead of the busy Test season.
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Rachin admitted that IPL is not just about playing matches, but being around top cricketers, watching how they prepare, and listening to their thoughts can teach a lot.
He further added, “So in a way, it is more than just T20. To be able to sit and talk to Virat (Kohli) about batting or talk to KL Rahul – all these guys who have performed well and achieved success over time.”
Rachin Ravindra thanks KKR for allowing him to return home ahead of England tour
The New Zealand star also thanked KKR for understanding his situation and allowing him to return home early to refresh himself and spend some time with his family before the tough season begins.
Ravindra further explained, “I mean, KKR were very welcoming and understood the situation. I won’t be home until the end of August because of what was coming. So, to be able to say that is really amazing for them.”
“Go home, freshen up, do a bit of training and do what you need before you join up with the boys in Ireland.” Because there was always going to be a little bit of overlap. Since I wasn’t playing it became easier. It’s a little something very refreshing. We spend a lot of time away from home.”
He will now be seen in action during New Zealand’s one-off Test against Ireland starting on May 27 in Belfast. After that, the Kiwis will travel to England for a high-profile three-match Test series starting at Lord’s from June 4.
