Robin Uthappa criticizes Chennai Super Kings for aiding Rachin Ravindra, asserts 'there must be boundaries...'

New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa has criticized Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for allowing New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra to practice at their academy before the Test series against India. Ravindra, who was a standout performer for New Zealand in their recent 3-0 series win, was part of the CSK squad for IPL 2024. The franchise permitted him to use their facilities to get accustomed to Indian conditions. Uthappa has expressed his disapproval of CSK's decision, emphasizing that when it comes to national interests, boundaries should be clearly defined.

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

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

Rachin Ravindra hailed New Zealand’s 3-0 Test series victory over India as a truly special achievement that’s hard to put into words. The historic series win was sealed with a thrilling 25-run triumph at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

Left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel claimed 6-57 as India were dismissed for 121 in their chase of 147, with New Zealand making history as the first visiting team to achieve a clean sweep in a three-Test series against India.

“It was unbelievable. On the field, it was a different feeling. I think it’s nothing like I’ve quite experienced before. Just seeing everyone’s elation, running towards each other. Ajaz’s sixth wicket, and being in Mumbai and seeing all the boys together in a huddle jumping around. It’s hard to quite quantify, but it’s pretty special,” said Ravindra on SEN Radio.