Rachin Ravindra Leads Black Caps Charge at Trent Bridge Against England

A strong performance by Rachin Ravindra (Indian-New Zealander) has put the Black Caps in a commanding position at the end of day three in the third test against England. Playing at Nottingham's Trent Bridge, Ravindra — whose whānau migrated to Aotearoa from Bengaluru, India — produced a vital unbeaten 60 to help the visitors reach 120-3 at stumps, extending their total lead to 204 runs on a challenging and deteriorating pitch. According to reporting from the NZ Herald, Ravindra's innings served as a timely reminder of his elite quality. Stepping up as a premier batter for the national side following the retirement of Kane Williamson, Ravindra's knock included 32 runs from boundaries. He was particularly effective with the new ball, executing a series of drives that steadied the New Zealand ship after the top order had earlier wobbled to 51-3. Ravindra found a reliable partner in Daryl Mitchell, who remains 26 not out. Together, the pair shared an unbroken 69-run partnership that halted England's momentum during the evening session. The Black Caps' advantage was further bolstered by a disciplined bowling display earlier in the day. A young seam attack, led by Nathan Smith's 4-91 and supported by Will O'Rourke and concussion substitute Zak Foulkes, combined to dismiss the hosts for 354. With two full days of play remaining and a significant lead already established, the Black Caps are well placed to push for a series victory. Editor's note (28 June 2026): An earlier version of this story incorrectly described Rachin Ravindra as Ngāti Porou. Ravindra is of Indian descent; his parents emigrated from Bengaluru, India. We apologise for the error.