New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra could miss the upcoming T20I series against India after suffering a shoulder injury during a promotional shoot in Auckland.
Ravindra injured his right shoulder while trying to take a diving catch during the shoot on September 16. The injury has now put his participation in the five-match series against India in doubt.
Ravindra Undergoing Rehabilitation
Ravindra underwent an initial assessment by medical specialists on September 18. The tests did not show any major structural damage to his shoulder.
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However, his return to cricket will depend on how he responds to rehabilitation over the next few weeks. At the moment, there is no clear indication of whether he will be fit in time for the T20I series, which begins on October 22.
Ravindra is an important member of New Zealand’s team across all three formats, making his fitness a concern ahead of a busy international schedule.
New Zealand Don’t Want To Rush His Return
New Zealand head coach Rob Walter said the team will take a cautious approach with Ravindra, especially with a packed Test schedule coming up.
“With a heavy schedule of Test cricket in the next six months, we do not want to rush Rachin back sooner than we need to,” said Walter, as quoted by the ICC.
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“He is in great hands in terms of his rehab, and we look forward to welcoming him back soon.”
India-New Zealand Series Schedule
New Zealand are expected to announce their squad for the T20I series against India next week.
The five-match T20I series will begin on October 22 and finish on November 1. The teams will then play five ODIs from November 4 to 15.
The tour will end with a two-match Test series, with the first Test scheduled in Wellington and the second in Christchurch. The Test series will run from November 19 to December 1.