In a recent Test match between Sri Lanka and New Zealand in Galle, Rachin Ravindra showcased an impressive performance by scoring 92 runs in the fourth innings. Despite his efforts, New Zealand fell short of the target of 275 runs needed to win the match. It was a valiant effort from Ravindra, who missed out on a well-deserved century.
Looking back at some of the highest fourth-innings scores by New Zealand batters in Test matches in Asia, Daniel Vettori stands out with his remarkable innings of 140 runs in Colombo back in 2009. Facing a daunting target of 494 runs, Vettori played a crucial role in steering his team past the 300-run mark with a brilliant century. However, the innings came to an end when he was dismissed by Muthiah Muralidaran, and New Zealand fell short of the target.
Following Vettori, Rachin Ravindra’s innings of 92 runs in Galle in 2024 ranks high on the list. Despite the challenging conditions and the Lankan spinners posing a threat, Ravindra held one end and fought bravely for his team. Unfortunately, his efforts were not enough as New Zealand lost the match by 63 runs.
Another memorable innings was played by Craig McMillan in Ahmedabad in 2003, where he scored an unbeaten 83 runs to secure a draw for New Zealand against India. Joining forces with Nathan Astle, McMillan displayed great resilience and determination, facing 190 balls to help his team avoid defeat.
In the 2016 Kanpur Test against India, Luke Ronchi played a crucial innings of 80 runs in a chase of 434 runs. Despite the top-order batsmen failing to deliver, Ronchi fought hard and formed a crucial partnership with Mitchell Santner. Their efforts were not enough as New Zealand eventually lost the match by 197 runs.
These innings highlight the determination and fighting spirit of New Zealand batters in challenging conditions in Asian Test matches. While the results may not always go in their favor, the grit and resilience shown by these players are commendable and reflect the never-say-die attitude of the Black Caps on the field.