Rachin Ravindra Exits IPL to Gear Up for New Zealand's Test Series in England

Kolkata Knight Riders' all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has left the IPL to prepare for New Zealand's upcoming Test series in England. Despite being signed for Rs 2 crore, he did not play a match this season. Ravindra will focus on red-ball training ahead of a warm-up game against Ireland and a three-match Test series at iconic venues like Lord's and The Oval. Currently, New Zealand ranks second in the World Test Championship standings, and Ravindra aims to contribute significantly during this crucial tour.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 15, 2026, 17:16 IST

Rachin Ravindra's Departure from IPL

Kolkata: Rachin Ravindra, an all-rounder for the Kolkata Knight Riders, has departed from the IPL to start his preparations for New Zealand's forthcoming Test series in England, as announced by the franchise ahead of their match against the Gujarat Titans.

On Friday, KKR confirmed, "Rachin Ravindra has returned home to commence his red-ball training for New Zealand's upcoming Test tour to England."

The KKR team is set to compete against the Gujarat Titans at Eden Gardens on Saturday.

Acquired by KKR for his base price of Rs 2 crore during the IPL 2026 auction, Ravindra leaves without having played a single match this season, as the franchise opted for marquee signing Cameron Green as their primary all-rounder.

The 26-year-old will now concentrate on red-ball cricket in preparation for his first tour to England.

The Black Caps are scheduled to play a four-day warm-up match against Ireland in Belfast starting May 27, followed by a three-match Test series in England. The Test matches will take place at Lord's (June 4-8), The Oval (June 17-21), and Nottingham (June 25-29).

Currently, New Zealand holds the second position in the 2025-27 World Test Championship standings, boasting two victories and a draw.

Ravindra, a consistent member of New Zealand's Test squad, previously scored an impressive unbeaten 165 against Zimbabwe in August 2025, followed by 176 in Christchurch and scores of 72 not out and 46 in Mount Maunganui against the West Indies in December.