Huge blow for New Zealand as star all-rounder has been injured. What's worse is that he is expected to miss India’s T20I series. The player in question is Rachin Ravindra. The New Zealand all-rounder has been ruled a doubt for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India after dislocating his right shoulder during a promotional shoot.
New Zealand star injured; in doubt for India T20I series
The 26-year-old sustained the injury earlier this week in Auckland while attempting a diving catch for a commercial with broadcaster Sky. He landed awkwardly on a safety mat. Initial assessments by medical specialists on Friday cleared Ravindra of any major structural damage. However, New Zealand Cricket said his return to play will depend on progress during the early stages of rehabilitation.
While the two national teams prepare for the upcoming series, the New Zealand side has now suffered an injury concern just ahead of the squad announcement. It remains to be seen if the key all-rounder is doubtful for the series.
The T20I series forms the opening leg of India’s three-format tour of New Zealand and is due to begin on 22 October. The Black Caps squad for those matches is expected to be named next week. Talking about the setback, New Zealand performance manager Mike Sandle said:
“It was a really unfortunate injury.”
Sandals added:
“We’re gutted for Rachin and our key priority is making sure he recovers well and gets back on the field as soon as he can. It was a bit of a freak accident.”
Head coach Rob Walter stressed that long-term fitness remains the priority given the side’s heavy Test schedule over the coming months. He said that he doesn't want to ‘rush’ the player as he has been a very crucial player for the side.
Ravindra has powered the side notably as the team’s leading run-scorer at the 2023 ODI World Cup and an important contributor with both bat and ball in the most recent T20 World Cup. Can he make it into the squad against India? The squad announcement is due this week.
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