New Zealand Cricket Issues Fitness Update On Rachin Ravindra After Head Injury

February 9, 2025: New Zealand Cricket (NZC) recently provided an update on the injury of all-rounder Rachin Ravindra, who was struck in the head while fielding during the first ODI of the Tri-Nation Series against Pakistan on Saturday. The incident occurred in the 38th over of Pakistan’s innings when Ravindra, while attempting to catch a ball off Michael Bracewell, lost sight of it due to the floodlights. As a result, the ball hit him heavily in the forehead, causing a laceration. Ravindra started to bleed and was immediately taken off the field.

According to NZC’s statement, Ravindra received treatment for the forehead injury on-site, and he was able to pass his first Head Injury Assessment (HIA) successfully. NZC confirmed that he was otherwise well and would continue to be monitored under HIA protocols. This injury update came as New Zealand already faced concerns over Lockie Ferguson’s hamstring injury, which occurred during the ILT20 in the UAE.

On the field, New Zealand dominated the match, securing a convincing 78-run victory over Pakistan. After winning the toss and opting to bat first, New Zealand found themselves in a difficult position at 39/2. However, valuable contributions from Kane Williamson (58), Daryl Mitchell (81), and Glenn Phillips (106*), who played an explosive knock, lifted New Zealand to a total of 330/6 in their 50 overs.

Pakistan’s bowling attack saw Shaheen Shah Afridi (3/88) and Abrar Ahmed (2/41) leading the way, but they were unable to stop New Zealand’s batting onslaught. In response, Pakistan’s chase of 331 runs got off to a strong start, with Fakhar Zaman playing a quick knock of 84 runs. However, Pakistan was quickly reduced to 119/4, and despite a 53-run partnership between Salman Agha (40) and Tayyab Tahir (30), they were bowled out for just 252 runs in 47.5 overs.

New Zealand’s bowling attack was spearheaded by skipper Mitchell Santner (3/41), pacer Matt Henry (3/53), and Michael Bracewell (2/41), who took crucial wickets to secure the victory for their side.