New Zealand wicketkeeper-batter Tom Latham has provided a significant update on Rachin Ravindra’s injury ahead of their 2025 Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan at Karachi’s National Stadium on Wednesday (February 19).
The all-rounder faces a race against time to regain fitness after missing most of the preceding tri-series involving Pakistan and South Africa due to a facial injury. Ravindra sustained the injury while attempting a catch during the tri-series opener against Pakistan at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on February 8, when the ball struck him in the face.
The impact left him bleeding heavily, requiring medical attention, and he missed the rest of the series. His availability for the match remains uncertain. New Zealand head coach Gary Stead said Ravindra has been progressing well after dealing with headaches for a few days.
Tom Latham confirmed that Rachin Ravindra will train with the squad on the eve of the match, and given the delicate nature of his injury, the management will make a final decision only when they are completely assured of his recovery.
“He will train tonight, so we’ll get a better indication of how he’s progressing. His recovery is going well, but we just need to make sure.”
“It was a pretty nasty injury. When it involves the head, you want to be absolutely certain everything is fine. He’s following the necessary protocols, and we’ll wait and see,” Latham said during the pre-match press conference (via India Today).
“Selection Uncertain Amid Injury Concerns”- Tom Latham on NZ’s XI
New Zealand suffered a setback as pacer Lockie Ferguson was ruled out of the 2025 Champions Trophy due to a foot injury. All-rounder Kyle Jamieson has been named as his replacement but has yet to join the squad, having played for Canterbury in domestic cricket until February 18.
The Blackcaps have also lost Ben Sears to injury, while a final decision on Rachin Ravindra’s availability is still pending. Consequently, the team has yet to finalize their playing XI for the Group A clash.
“No, we haven’t finalised our XI yet. We have training now and will decide afterward. As you mentioned, Kyle Jamieson is arriving tomorrow, so unfortunately, he won’t be available for our first game but will be ready for the rest of the tournament,” Latham said in the same press conference.
Get the latest cricket news here, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more such updates.
