New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is on the mend after suffering a forehead injury during the tri-series match against Pakistan at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday. The incident occurred in the 38th over of Pakistan’s innings when Ravindra lost sight of the ball under the floodlights while attempting a catch. The ball struck him directly on the forehead, leaving him bloodied as medical staff rushed onto the field. It is was an alarming sign for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who bought Rachin for Rs 4 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction.
How bad is Rachin Ravindra’s injury?
“Rachin Ravindra sustained a laceration to the forehead after being struck by the ball in yesterday’s ODI tri-series win over Pakistan in Lahore. Ravindra passed the initial head injury assessment and the laceration, which required stitches, was addressed and treated at the ground. He is otherwise well and will continue to be monitored under HIA protocols. He is unlikely to feature in tomorrow’s match against South Africa.” New Zealand’s team management confirmed in a statement.
Although, in their statement, New Zealand didn’t announce his unavailability, he is all but set to miss out in the next game, which is against South Africa in Lahore.
Centurion Glenn Phillips on Rachin Ravindra
New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips, who was named Player of the Match, described the moment as “terrifying” but reassured fans that Ravindra was doing well. “He lost the ball in the lights, and unfortunately, the ball won that situation this time,” Phillips said. “But he’s been conscious the whole time, which is fantastic. He’s being monitored, and I’m sure he’ll be raring to go as soon as possible.”
Phillips played a crucial role in New Zealand’s victory, scoring his maiden one-day international century. His unbeaten 106 off 74 balls propelled the Black Caps to 330-6 before they bowled out Pakistan for 252, securing a 78-run win.
