Robin Uthappa Criticizes CSK for Allowing Rachin Ravindra Practice at Their Academy

Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has voiced his displeasure with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for letting New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra use their practice facilities ahead of the recent Test series between India and New Zealand. Ravindra, who trained at CSK’s Chennai academy, went on to deliver a stellar performance in the series, making Uthappa question the franchise’s decision to prioritize a foreign player’s preparation over national interests.

Ravindra’s practice stint at CSK’s facilities proved invaluable for him, as he scored a crucial 134 in the first Test in Bengaluru and followed it up with solid contributions throughout the series. His efforts helped New Zealand secure a historic 3-0 series victory against India, their first series win in India in over three decades. After the first Test, Ravindra credited his preparation in Chennai for acclimating him to Indian conditions, a sentiment that sparked Uthappa’s criticism.

“CSK is a wonderful franchise that goes out of its way to support its players, but a line has to be drawn,” said Uthappa on his YouTube channel. “When a foreign player is training with us only to turn around and play against our national team, we must think about where the franchise’s interests start overshadowing those of the country.”

Uthappa, who played with CSK in the 2021 and 2022 IPL seasons, acknowledged CSK’s dedication to player support but suggested that some decisions, especially those that impact national interests, should be reconsidered. “I love CSK, but when it comes to national duty, there has to be a boundary,” he added.

In addition to his century in Bengaluru, Ravindra notched up a composed 65 in the second Test and ended the series as New Zealand’s second-highest scorer with 256 runs at an impressive average of 51.20. His contributions were instrumental in New Zealand’s 3-0 whitewash of India, underscoring the impact of his time at CSK’s academy.

Uthappa praised Ravindra’s brilliant innings, calling it one of the finest displays by a visiting player on Indian soil. “That century in Bengaluru was truly one of the best by a foreign player here. Rachin Ravindra has shown that he is the future of New Zealand cricket,” he said. However, he maintained that CSK, while looking after players, should not undermine India’s competitive edge, especially against international opponents.

As the debate over franchise support versus national priorities heats up, CSK’s decision could prompt IPL teams to reassess similar training allowances in the future. Meanwhile, Ravindra’s impactful series in India has established him as a promising figure in international cricket and a testament to the advantages of localized preparation.

image credit: www.icccricketschedule.com

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