Rachin Ravindra ruled out of India T20I series
New Zealand will be without Rachin Ravindra for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India. The batting all-rounder has been ruled out after suffering a right shoulder injury during a promotional shoot last week.
The series begins on October 22, with the two teams set to meet in New Zealand. Ravindra’s absence is a setback for the home side, which will now begin the summer without one of its key all-round options.
How Ravindra suffered the injury
Ravindra dislocated his right shoulder while attempting to take a diving catch during a promotional shoot in Auckland. The injury happened during filming for a commercial shoot with broadcaster Sky.
Initial medical assessments ruled out major structural damage. However, the New Zealand all-rounder still needs a period of rehabilitation before he can return to cricket.
His recovery is expected to take around six weeks.
New Zealand take a cautious approach
New Zealand are not rushing Ravindra back. The team is hopeful that he can recover in time for the ODI series against India, which begins at Eden Park in Auckland on November 4.
New Zealand coach Rob Walter said Ravindra would play a major role for the team during the summer. He also stressed that the player must not rush his rehabilitation.
“We’re optimistic he’ll be back for the ODIs,” Walter said.
Ravindra’s progress during rehabilitation will now decide when he can return to full training and match play.
Adam Milne returns to squad
New Zealand have named a 16-member squad for the India T20Is, with Mitchell Santner set to lead the side. Adam Milne has returned after a year away from the squad.
The squad includes a seven-strong pace attack. Tim Seifert and Finn Allen are expected to provide the team’s opening options, while Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Devon Conway and Mark Chapman add experience to the batting group.
Michael Bracewell also returns to the squad.
New Zealand T20I squad
Finn Allen, Matt Henry, Glenn Phillips, Zak Foulkes, Michael Bracewell, Adam Milne, Mitchell Santner, Bevon Jacobs, Jacob Duffy, Daryl Mitchell, Tim Seifert, Mark Chapman, Kyle Jamieson, Devon Conway, Nathan Smith and Lockie Ferguson.
A blow ahead of India series
Ravindra has become an important part of New Zealand’s white-ball plans. He offers the side a left-handed batting option and useful support with the ball.
His absence leaves New Zealand without one of its leading all-rounders for the T20I series. The team will now look to cover that gap with its wider squad.
Santner will lead New Zealand as the side prepares for a busy home summer. Ravindra’s main target will be to regain full fitness for the ODI series in November.
FAQs
Why has Rachin Ravindra been ruled out?
Ravindra has been ruled out after dislocating his right shoulder during a promotional shoot in Auckland.
How long is Ravindra expected to be out?
His rehabilitation is expected to take around six weeks.
Will Ravindra play the ODI series against India?
New Zealand are hoping he will be available for the ODI series beginning on November 4, but his return will depend on his rehabilitation.
Who will lead New Zealand in the T20I series?
Mitchell Santner will lead New Zealand’s 16-member squad against India.
