Rachin Ravindra Doubtful for India vs New Zealand T20Is After 'Freak Accident' Causes Injury During Shoot
New Zealand's Rachin Ravindra is in doubt for the upcoming five-match T20I series against India after dislocating his right shoulder during a promotional shoot on September 16, 2026. The 26-year-old all-rounder, whose initial scans showed no major structural damage, faces an uncertain return, with the series set to begin on October 22.
In a significant blow to New Zealand's preparations for the highly anticipated T20I series against India, star all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has been sidelined after dislocating his right shoulder during a promotional shoot in Auckland on Wednesday, September 16. The 'freak accident,' as described by New Zealand Cricket, occurred when the 26-year-old landed awkwardly while attempting a diving catch for a commercial filming with broadcaster Sky. Anvay Dravid and Aaryavir Sehwag Star as India U19 Edge Australia U19 by 7 Runs in 1st Unofficial ODI.
Initial medical assessments on Friday, September 18, brought some relief, clearing Ravindra of any major structural damage to his shoulder. However, his return to competitive cricket remains uncertain and will depend entirely on his response to rehabilitation in the coming weeks. This leaves the dynamic left-hander a significant doubt for the five-match T20 International series against India, which is scheduled to commence on October 22.
'It was a really unfortunate injury,' stated Mike Sandle, New Zealand's Performance Manager, expressing the team's disappointment. '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 also highlighted that appropriate safety measures were in place for the commercial shoot, calling the incident a 'bit of a freak accident.'
Blackcaps head coach Rob Walter echoed the sentiment, emphasizing a cautious approach to Ravindra's recovery, especially with a demanding Test schedule on the horizon. '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 commented. 'He's in great hands in terms of his rehab and we look forward to welcoming him back."
India Tour of New Zealand 2026 T20I Series Schedule
New Zealand is set to host India for a comprehensive multi-format tour, with the five T20Is kicking off the action. Mitchell Santner is expected to lead the Blackcaps in the T20I series. BCCI to Decide Ajit Agarkar's Future as Chief Selector, Confirms VP Rajeev Shukla.
| Match | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| 1st T20I | Oct 22, 2026 | Christchurch |
| 2nd T20I | Oct 24, 2026 | Christchurch |
| 3rd T20I | Oct 27, 2026 | Wellington |
| 4th T20I | Oct 30, 2026 | Auckland |
| 5th T20I | Nov 1, 2026 | Hamilton |
Ravindra, who will turn 27 on November 18, has been a key player for New Zealand across all formats since his international debut in 2021. His absence, if confirmed, will undoubtedly be felt by the Blackcaps, who will need to adjust their squad ahead of the challenging home series against a formidable Indian side. The Blackcaps are expected to announce their squad next week, with Ravindra's recovery closely monitored for any potential involvement. The uncertainty surrounding Rachin Ravindra's participation adds another layer of intrigue to an already exciting series, with fans eager to see how both teams adapt to the challenges ahead.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 19, 2026 10:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
