New Zealand head coach Gary Stead has shared that star batter Rachin Ravindra has not yet fully recovered from the injury he sustained during the first match against Pakistan in the ongoing Tri-Nation Series. Although Ravindra recently participated in a brief net session, Stead stressed that his recovery is progressing slowly and cautiously.
In an update on the BlackCaps’ social media page ahead of their Tri-Series final against Pakistan on February 14, Stead stated that the young all-rounder is still experiencing headaches but is showing gradual improvement.
With the Champions Trophy approaching, where New Zealand will take on co-hosts Pakistan in the opening match on February 19, the team management is keeping a close watch on his recovery.
“Rachin obviously got that nasty blow in Lahore to the forehead. The pleasing thing is he’s progressing well. So, we are following HIA protocols at the moment.”
”He’s had a headache for a few days, but that’s subsiding, which is really good news. He hit a few balls tonight for the first time, which is good. But there’s still a few more steps for him to go through before he will be considered fit for play,” Stead said.
Rachin Ravindra’s devastating injury
Rachin Ravindra sustained his injury in an unfortunate incident during the 38th over of Pakistan’s innings. Fielding at deep square leg, he misjudged a lofted sweep shot by Khushdil Shah and was struck directly on the face.
The impact resulted in significant bleeding near his eye, forcing him to leave the field immediately, with the team’s physio using a towel to stem the heavy bleeding. In addition to Ravindra, head coach Gary Stead also provided an update on experienced fast bowler Lockie Ferguson, who suffered a hamstring injury during the ILT20.
Unlike Ravindra, Ferguson is recovering well and has been actively participating in net sessions, improving his chances of playing in the Champions Trophy.
“And Lockie has been out there. He has had a couple of bowls since he has been here, so the intensity was up a little bit more tonight. Pleased with how he’s tracking and celtainly will look to have him playing in one of the next two games,” Stead added.
Before kicking off their Champions Trophy campaign, New Zealand is set to play a warm-up match against Afghanistan on February 16 at Karachi’s National Stadium. As they gear up for the prestigious tournament, the team remains hopeful for encouraging news regarding Ravindra’s recovery.
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