Bengaluru: Former legendary Indian batsman Sachin Tendulkar has praised Rachin Ravindra and Sarfaraz Khan for scoring centuries in the first Test between India and New Zealand at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. New Zealand batsman Rachin, who is from Bengaluru, scored his second Test century and helped the visitors post 402 in the first innings while bowling out India for 46, their lowest Test score on home ground. He scored 134 runs with the help of 13 fours and four sixes. He also became the first New Zealand batsman to score a Test century in India since 2012.

On the other hand, Sarfraz scored his maiden Test century in India's second innings on Saturday, leading the charge along with Rishabh Pant. The duo shared an unbeaten 113-run stand for the fourth wicket before rain halted play in the first session and forced an early lunch break. With Sarfraz (125 not out) and Pant (53 not out) at the crease, India was placed at 344/3 in 71 overs.

Tendulkar wrote on X, “Cricket has a way of connecting us to our roots. Rachin Ravindra has a special bond with Bengaluru, where his family comes from! Another century to his name.”

He added, “And Sarfraz Khan, what a moment to score his maiden Test century when India needed it most! Exciting times ahead for both these talented youngsters.”

Starting on 70, Sarfraz brought up his hundred in style – a backfoot punch off Saurabh cleared the in-field for four – with the right-hander running in with his bat held high and his hands raised. He then took off his helmet, roared, and swung his bat in style.

Before Pant hugged him, the spectators in the stadium stood up to welcome his incredible innings. Pant was out after scoring 99 runs off 105 balls with the help of nine fours and five sixes. He missed the century by one run.