New Zealand’s promising all-rounder, Rachin Ravindra, has been officially ruled out of the upcoming three-match T20I series against Australia. This unfortunate news comes after he sustained a facial injury during a training session held at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui.
New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra ruled out of Australia T20I series due to a facial injury.
The incident occurred on Tuesday during a fielding drill when Ravindra accidentally collided with a boundary hoarding, resulting in a significant facial laceration that required stitches. His absence is a considerable blow to the Black Caps ahead of the crucial series.
In response to Ravindra’s injury, veteran all-rounder Jimmy Neesham has been called up to join the squad as a replacement. The series is set to kick off on Wednesday.
New Zealand coach Rob Walter expressed his disappointment regarding the situation: “We’re all really disappointed for Rachin to be forced to miss the series. He sustained a major laceration to his upper lip and nose area which required specialist and intricate stitching and will take time to heal.”
“Rachin is obviously an important player for us, but his health and well-being is our top priority. Therefore, the decision was made to send him home to recover, with the hope that he will be available for the England series scheduled in two weeks’ time,” Walter added, emphasizing the team’s concern for the player’s recovery.
Coach Walter also voiced confidence in Neesham’s inclusion, stating, “We’re fortunate to be able to call on Jimmy, who brings a wealth of experience and comprehensive all-round capabilities. It’s going to be a significant match at Bay Oval, and I know we’re all eagerly anticipating the start of the Chappell-Hadlee series.”
The confirmed New Zealand squad for the series includes: Michael Bracewell (captain), Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Bevon Jacobs, Kyle Jamieson, Daryl Mitchell, Jimmy Neesham, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Tim Seifert, and Ish Sodhi.
The team remains optimistic about Ravindra’s recovery and his potential return for the England series, which is just around the corner.