‘He idolized them for years’: Rachin Ravindra reveals how Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma shaped his batting

India’s Virat Kohli, left, and Rohit Sharma (PTI Photo) For Rachin Ravindra, the journey from a bemused youngster sharing the field with his cricketing idols to an acclaimed international all-rounder has been one of learning, resilience and quiet evolution. Still, even as the New Zealand batsman continues to carve out his own identity, the influence of Indian greats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma remains etched in 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 watches cricket will be crazy about Rohit and Virat. I sure am too. They’ve been doing it for so long, winning trophies and staying consistent in creating fantastic moments. They’re two players I’ve idolized for years, modeled parts of my batting on them and learned little things from them,” said Ravindra.For Ravindra, Kohli’s mastery in bounce conditions and Rohit’s command against spin offer valuable lessons in adaptability, temperament and intent. “Watching Virat play in bouncy conditions and Rohit play spin has influenced me in several ways. Apart from technique, it’s about their guts and determination. Kohli’s hundreds in tough situations and Rohit’s fluid, fearless approach at the top are qualities I try to take from both. So picking their brains 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 put Ravindra among cricket’s next celebrated elite. However, the 26-year-old does not want to think too much about such comparisons. “It’s a privilege to be mentioned in this interview, but the original Fab Four are streets ahead of us at the moment. Their records are fantastic and they remain my great players and idols. Ultimately, my priority is to contribute to the team. That matters more than individual awards or points scored,” he said.New Zealand, meanwhile, will be drawing confidence from their historic 3-0 Test series triumph in India last year. Ravindra believes the win against a formidable home side will boost the Black Caps’ belief.“To beat such a quality team in their own conditions gives you huge confidence. Previous tours to India were tough and sometimes we were lucky to win instead of a match. To win three matches against a team with Rohit, Virat, Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja was a proud moment,” he said.(Watch the New Zealand tour live after India and exclusively on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV from 22 October 2026)