Rachin Ravindra injured during promotional shoot

AUCKLAND: New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has suffered a shoulder injury during a promotional shoot, putting his participation in the upcoming five-match T20I series against India in doubt.

New Zealand Cricket confirmed the injury after Ravindra was hurt while attempting a diving catch during a promotional event in Auckland. The 26-year-old reportedly landed awkwardly while completing the catch, sustaining an injury to his right shoulder.

Initial assessments have not indicated a serious injury, but New Zealand’s medical team is expected to monitor Ravindra closely before determining whether he will be fit to feature against India.

The injury is an untimely setback for Ravindra, who has become an important part of New Zealand’s white-ball plans. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball has made him a valuable option across formats.

New Zealand performance manager Mike Sandle expressed disappointment over the incident and said safety measures had been put in place for the promotional shoot.

“We’re obviously disappointed for Rachin,” Sandle said, adding that appropriate safety precautions had been taken during the event.

He said New Zealand Cricket would continue reviewing its procedures for promotional activities and similar events in the future.

The incident has raised questions over Ravindra’s availability for New Zealand’s upcoming home series against India. The Black Caps are scheduled to host India in a five-match T20I series beginning on October 22, with the matches expected to provide important preparation for both sides ahead of their wider international schedules.

For New Zealand, Ravindra’s fitness will be closely watched in the coming weeks. The team management is likely to avoid taking unnecessary risks with the all-rounder until the extent of the shoulder problem becomes clearer.

Although there is currently no confirmation that Ravindra will miss the series, his participation remains uncertain following the injury.

New Zealand Cricket is expected to provide further updates after Ravindra undergoes additional medical assessments. Until then, the focus will remain on his recovery and whether he can return to full training before the India series gets underway.

The unusual nature of the injury has added an unexpected concern for New Zealand ahead of what promises to be a closely followed T20I contest.