New Zealand Cricket issues an official statement on Rachin Ravindra after career-ending injury

New Zealand cricketer Rachin Ravindra suffered a terrifying injury during the first match of the ongoing Tri-nation ODI series against Pakistan at the newly renovated Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The incident sent chills through the stadium, as Rachin Ravindra suffered a gruesome forehead laceration while fielding at deep square leg on Saturday (February 8) night.

It was the 38th over when Khushdil Shah launched a powerful shot into the floodlit sky. The talented New Zealand all-rounder was perfectly positioned for the crucial catch, but he appeared to misjudge the ball’s trajectory, seemingly blinded by the dazzling lights at the Gaddafi Stadium.

Rachin Ravindra was struck on the forehead while fielding

And then the terrible moment unfolded as the ball struck Ravindra directly on the forehead when he came forward to grab the ball.

In a few moments, Ravindra dropped to his knees, blood streaming down his face as he stared at the ground in pain. The crowd went silent in fright while the players from both sides looked concerned following the incident.

Read Also: NZ vs SA Match Prediction: Who will win the 2nd ODI? Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025

New Zealand’s medical staff ran onto the field to check Ravindra. Even a stretcher was brought in, but it was thankfully not needed. The brave cricketer received treatment while lying on the ground, and with assistance from the medical team, he managed to rise to his feet.

Later, Ravindra walked off the field with a towel pressed to his face. Following the frightening scene, match officials later confirmed that Rachin was "well" after receiving treatment to give a sigh of relief to the fans and players. He couldn’t return to the field, but New Zealand managed to record a 78-run victory over Pakistan in the four-match Tri-nation ODI series opener in Lahore.

A tough moment on the field for Rachin Ravindra as an attempted catch turned into an unfortunate injury. 🤕

Get well soon, Rachin! pic.twitter.com/34dB108tpF

— FanCode (@FanCode) February 8, 2025

NZC confirms Rachin Ravindra recovering well after terrifying injury

Meanwhile, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has now shared an update on Rachin Ravindra’s injury. The board has confirmed that Rachin Ravindra cleared his initial head injury assessment (HIA), and he is doing well, but he will remain under close monitoring as per HIA protocols.

The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) said in the official statement, “Ravindra was forced from the field after being struck in the forehead by the ball attempting a catch in the 38th over. He sustained a laceration to the forehead, which has been addressed and treated at the ground but is otherwise well. He came through his first HIA (Head Injury Assessment) well and will continue to be monitored under HIA processes.”

Meanwhile, New Zealand will next face South Africa just 36 hours after their match against Pakistan. If Ravindra isn't fit to play, Devon Conway might step in as a top-order replacement on Monday, February 10, at the same venue—Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Read Also: ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Haris Rauf's participation under serious doubt after walking off vs New Zealand

Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, and Mitchell Santner shine bright in the Black Caps' thrilling win over Pakistan in Lahore

Earlier, Glenn Phillips stole the show with his explosive unbeaten knock of 106 runs off 74 balls, studded with six boundaries and seven sixes against Pakistan. While Daryl Mitchell contributed 81, Kane Williamson also chipped in with the crucial fifty during the Black Caps’ thrilling win.

Later, Michael Bracewell joined the fireworks, hammering three massive sixes in his quick 31 off 23 balls, as New Zealand posted a commanding total of 330/6 on the board. And then the Kiwis bowled out Pakistan for 252, thanks to captain Mitchell Santner and Matt Henry’s three-wicket hauls.