New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra pumped his fists and flashed a big smile to acknowledge the loud applause that followed his century in the first test against India on Friday, as adoring Bengaluru fans celebrated like he was one of their own.

New Zealand batsman Rachin Ravindra said on Friday he was proud to have hit a Test century ton with his father watching from the stands in his family's hometown of Bengaluru. "I know they're very proud and it makes me happy that they were able to watch a relative play in their hometown.

Born in New Zealand to Indian parents, the mop-haired left-hander from Wellington emerged as a crowd favourite among Indian fans when playing for the Black Caps in last year's 50-overs World Cup and Chennai in this season's Indian Premier League.

"I know they're very proud and it makes me happy that they were able to watch a relative play in their hometown. It's just very cool. I know dad and mum would be very proud of that," he said.

New Zealand allrounder Rachin Ravindra will carry that soothing ‘home ground’ feeling when India take on New Zealand in the first Test in Bengaluru. The Kiwi has familial roots entrenched in the city.

New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra pumped his fists and flashed a big smile to acknowledge the loud applause that followed his century in the first test against India on Friday, as adoring Bengaluru fans celebrated like he was one of their own.

Overnight batsman Rachin Ravindra hit a sparkling century to extend New Zealand's lead to a commanding 299 on day three of the rain-hit first Test against India on Friday.