WELLINGTON: New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has dislocated his right shoulder during a promotional shoot, putting his participation in next month’s T20 series against India in doubt.
Ravindra suffered the injury in Auckland on Wednesday while filming a diving catch for a commercial shoot with Sky, New Zealand Cricket said on Saturday.
Initial medical assessments ruled out major structural damage. However, doctors will determine Ravindra’s return timeline based on his progress during the early stages of rehabilitation.
The 26-year-old has played 115 matches for New Zealand across all formats. He can bat in both the top and middle order and also contributes as a left-arm finger-spinner.
Ravindra played a key role for New Zealand at recent major tournaments. He finished as the team’s leading run-scorer at the 2023 50-over World Cup.
Meanwhile, he also emerged as New Zealand’s leading wicket-taker at this year’s T20 World Cup, where the team reached the final.
New Zealand Cricket Reviews Safety Measures
New Zealand performance manager Mike Sandle expressed disappointment over Ravindra’s injury.
“We are gutted for Rachin,” Sandle said.
He added that officials had agreed on the activities for the commercial shoot in advance. The team also had safety measures in place.
However, Sandle described the injury as a freak accident and said New Zealand Cricket would review its procedures for future events.
New Zealand will host India in a five-match T20 series from October 22.
The two teams will then play five One-Day Internationals and two Test matches in November.
Ravindra’s recovery will therefore remain under close observation as New Zealand prepares for the busy home series.
