Former Indian cricket team batsman Robin Uthappa criticized Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings for allowing the New Zealand star Rachin Ravindra to practice at their academy before the Test series against India. Ravindra became the top scorer for New Zealand as the visitors completed a 3-0 series whitewash. Ravindra was part of the CSK squad in IPL 2024 and the franchise allowed him to practice at their academy to acclimatise to the Indian conditions. Uthappa was highly critical of CSK’s decision and said that when the country’s interest is at stake, teams should draw a line.

“Rachin Ravindra came here and practiced at the CSK Academy. CSK is a beautiful franchise which will always look after its franchise players but a line has to be drawn where the interest of the country comes before your players, especially when it is a foreign player and he comes and plays against our country,” said Uthappa about him YouTube channel.

“I’m not surprised that CSK always go above and beyond for their players but somewhere in that goodwill maybe I’m not saying the right thing, I absolutely love CSK but when it comes to the country there should be a line somewhere where we don’t we cross that line,” he added.

Rachin Ravindra has described his side’s 3-0 Test series win over India as something special, difficult to fully quantify. New Zealand secured a historic Test series win in India with a dramatic 25-run victory at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Left arm rotator Ajaz Patel took 6-57 as India were bowled out for 121 in a chase of 147 as New Zealand also became the first visiting team to complete a landmark in a three-Test series against India.

“It was unbelievable. On the field, it was a different feeling. I think it’s unlike anything I’ve experienced before. Just seeing everyone’s joy, running towards each other. Ajaz’s sixth wicket and being in Mumbai and to see all the boys together in a bunch jumping around. It’s hard to quantify, but it’s pretty special,” Ravindra told SEN Radio.

(With IANS inputs)