Sun Mar 09 16:40:00 UTC 2025: ## Ravindra’s Century Propels New Zealand to Victory, Secures IPL Return
**Lahore, Pakistan** – Rachin Ravindra smashed a magnificent 108 runs off 101 balls in New Zealand’s Champions Trophy semi-final win against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium. His impressive innings, which included a crucial 164-run partnership with Kane Williamson (who also scored a century), helped New Zealand post a commanding 362 runs. This century marks Ravindra’s fifth ODI century, remarkably all scored in ICC tournaments – a record among current players.
Ravindra’s performance comes as a significant boost ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Despite a strong start in IPL 2024, followed by a dip in form, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) showed faith in the young batsman, using their Right to Match (RTM) card to secure him for INR 4 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, beating out a strong bid from Punjab Kings. He will now contend with Devon Conway for a starting spot in the CSK lineup. Last year, Ravindra missed the IPL due to a fractured left thumb.
First Piper 