Rachin Ravindra doubtful for India T20I series after freak injury during promo shoot: ‘We don’t want to rush…’

New Zealand have been handed a fitness concern ahead of their upcoming T20I series against India, with star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra facing a race against time after dislocating his right shoulder in an unusual off-field incident.

Ravindra suffered the injury on Wednesday while taking part in a promotional shoot in Auckland. According to New Zealand Cricket (NZC), the left-handed batter was attempting a diving catch when he landed awkwardly on a safety mat.

The incident has left his participation in the five-match series against India, beginning on October 22, uncertain.

Medical scans bring some relief for Rachin Ravindra

There was, however, some encouraging news after Ravindra underwent a medical assessment.

Specialists examined the New Zealand all-rounder on Friday and found no major structural damage to his shoulder.

Despite that positive development, there is no confirmed timeline for his return to competitive cricket. His availability will depend on how well he responds to rehabilitation over the coming weeks.

With New Zealand’s squad for the India series expected to be announced next week, Ravindra’s recovery will be closely monitored before a final call is made.

‘We’re gutted for Rachin’

New Zealand performance manager Mike Sandle described the incident as an unfortunate injury and stressed that Ravindra’s recovery remains the immediate priority.

“It was a really unfortunate injury. We’re gutted for Rachin and our key priority is making sure he recovers well and gets back on the field as soon as he can,” Sandle said.

Sandle also said the promotional activities had been organised with appropriate safety measures in place.

However, New Zealand Cricket is expected to review its processes following the incident.

Rob Walter sends clear message over Ravindra’s comeback

Black Caps head coach Rob Walter has made it clear that New Zealand will not rush Ravindra back into action, especially with a demanding schedule awaiting the team.

“With a heavy schedule of Test cricket in the next six months, we don’t want to rush Rachin back sooner than we need to,” Walter said.

The coach added that Ravindra was receiving the required support during his rehabilitation and that the team was looking forward to having him back.

The approach means New Zealand could choose to prioritise Ravindra’s long-term fitness even if he makes significant progress before the India series.

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Why Ravindra’s absence could matter for New Zealand

The injury comes at an inconvenient stage for Rachin Ravindra, who has established himself as an important member of New Zealand’s setup across formats.

In 52 T20 internationals, Ravindra has scored 759 runs, with a highest score of 69.

His left-arm spin also provides New Zealand with an additional bowling option. Ravindra has claimed 26 T20I wickets, including career-best figures of 4/27.

His ability to contribute with both bat and ball gives the Black Caps additional flexibility when balancing their playing XI.

Mitchell Santner reportedly in line to lead New Zealand

New Zealand are expected to announce their squad for the five-match series next week, with Mitchell Santner reportedly in line to captain the side against the defending T20 world champions India.

For now, however, considerable attention will remain on Ravindra’s rehabilitation.

The absence of major structural damage provides some encouragement, but New Zealand Cricket appears determined not to take unnecessary risks with the 26-year-old’s recovery.

With the opening India vs New Zealand T20I scheduled for October 22, the coming weeks will determine whether Ravindra can recover quickly enough to feature in the series or whether New Zealand will have to make their plans without one of their key all-rounders.