New Zealand cricketer Rachin Ravindra has been sidelined from the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia due to a facial injury sustained during a training session. The unfortunate incident occurred when Ravindra collided with a boundary hoarding while attempting to make a catch, resulting in a significant laceration to his upper lip and nose. Given the complexity of the injury, which required specialist attention and intricate stitching, the decision was made to send him home for recovery. This move also considers his fitness for the upcoming series against England, which is set to start in two weeks.
New Zealand’s head coach, Rob Walters, expressed disappointment over Ravindra’s forced absence but emphasized that his health and well-being are the team’s primary concern. As a replacement, all-rounder James Neesham has been brought into the squad, bringing with him valuable experience and versatility.
This marks the second facial injury Ravindra has sustained this year. Earlier, during preparations for the Champions Trophy, he was struck on the forehead while attempting a catch, which sidelined him from the remaining games of a tri-series and the opening game of the Champions Trophy.
The series against Australia kicks off at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on October 1, with subsequent matches scheduled for October 3 and 4. Despite the setback, the New Zealand team remains optimistic, bolstered by Neesham’s inclusion and their focus on player welfare.