Rachin Ravindra might miss India series [Source: AFP]New Zealand have suffered a setback ahead of their upcoming all-format home series against India, with Rachin Ravindra now doubtful for the T20I leg.The all-rounder has suffered a freak injury that will require rehabilitation, with New Zealand Cricket yet to provide a definite timeline for his return. Rachin Ravindra's availability for the five-match T20I series will depend on how he responds in the early stages of his recovery. The series is scheduled to begin in Christchurch on October 22.Rachin Ravindra hurts himself during promo shootRavindra suffered a dislocated right shoulder while attempting a diving catch during a promotional shoot in Auckland earlier this week. The New Zealand all-rounder landed awkwardly on a safety mat while completing the attempt. He underwent initial assessments on Friday, with medical specialists ruling out any major structural damage. However, the injury still requires rehabilitation, and his return will be determined by his progress during the opening weeks of that process.Also Read- Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI vs England – 3rd T20I, SL Tour of ENG 2026New Zealand performance manager Mike Sandle described the incident as an unfortunate one and said Ravindra's recovery is now the team's priority.“It was a really unfortunate injury. We're gutted for Rachin Ravindra and our key priority is making sure he recovers well and gets back on the field as soon as he can,” Mike shared.New Zealand's five-match T20I series against India begins on October 22, with the remaining games scheduled for October 24, 27, 30 and November 1. Freak injury exposes India T20Is not priority for Rachin RavindraWith the extent of Ravindra's recovery from the injury still unclear, New Zealand are not prepared to push him back into action prematurely. Head coach Rob Walter indicated that the team's focus will extend beyond the immediate T20I assignment, particularly with a demanding Test schedule to follow.“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. He's in great hands in terms of his rehab and we look forward to welcoming him back soon,” Walter said.The India tour continues with five ODIs from November 4 to 15 before the two-Test series begins in Wellington on November 19. With that packed schedule ahead, Ravindra's recovery might be prioritised for the red-ball assignment with the ODIs being in hindsight for the management.More to follow…
