Rachin Ravindra is set to miss the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia after sustaining a facial injury during a fielding drill. The New Zealand all-rounder collided with a boundary hoarding at Mount Maunganui’s Bay Oval, resulting in a significant laceration to his upper lip and nose, which required specialist stitching. Coach Rob Walter expressed the team’s disappointment over Ravindra’s absence, emphasizing that his health is the primary concern. The goal is for Ravindra to recover in time for the England series happening in two weeks.
This incident marks the second time Ravindra has suffered a facial injury this year. Earlier in the 2025 season, he was hit on the forehead during a tri-series game against South Africa in Lahore, causing him to miss the rest of the series as well as New Zealand’s opening match in the Champions Trophy against Pakistan.
To fill the gap left by Ravindra, Jimmy Neesham has been brought into the squad. Neesham, a seasoned player with 84 T20I appearances, previously joined the New Zealand team on their tour of Zimbabwe in July. Coach Walter is optimistic about Neesham’s addition, praising his experience and all-round skills.
The New Zealand squad for the T20I series includes Michael Bracewell as captain, along with players like Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, and Daryl Mitchell. The team is eagerly looking forward to the Chappell-Hadlee series opener at Bay Oval.