New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has suffered a right shoulder dislocation and remains doubtful for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India.
New Zealand have been handed an injury concern ahead of their upcoming five-match T20I series against India after all-rounder Rachin Ravindra suffered a right shoulder dislocation during a promotional shoot in Auckland. The injury occurred on September 16 while Ravindra was attempting to take a diving catch during filming with broadcaster Sky. Initial medical assessments have not identified major structural damage, but his availability for the India series remains uncertain.
Ravindra reportedly landed awkwardly on a safety mat while completing the catch. He was assessed by medical specialists on September 18, with the initial examination providing some relief to New Zealand because no significant structural damage was detected. However, the all-rounder still needs rehabilitation, and his return to competitive cricket will depend on how his shoulder responds during the early stages of recovery.
The five-match T20I series against India is scheduled to begin on October 22, giving Ravindra several weeks to recover. New Zealand’s management, however, is expected to take a cautious approach rather than rushing him back. Head coach Rob Walter has stressed the importance of Ravindra’s long-term recovery, particularly because New Zealand face a demanding Test schedule over the following months.
Ravindra has become an important part of New Zealand’s white-ball setup. He has represented the country across all three formats and has contributed both with the bat and his left-arm spin. His versatility gives New Zealand another option in their playing combination, making his fitness an important factor as the team prepares for the India tour.
The timing of the injury is therefore particularly significant. New Zealand are due to announce their T20I squad next week, and the selectors may have to consider Ravindra’s fitness status before deciding whether to include him. Even if he is named, his participation could depend on his rehabilitation progress and further medical assessments.
For India, Ravindra’s potential absence would remove one of New Zealand’s most versatile players from the series. The five-match contest is expected to provide both teams with valuable preparation, while Ravindra’s rehabilitation will now remain one of the major talking points ahead of the opening T20I.
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