Pakistan scrutinised as Rachin Ravindra suffers freak accident due to floodlights

The ODI tri-series between Pakistan, South Africa, and New Zealand kicked off on February 8, with the hosts facing the Kiwis in Lahore. The Kiwis, led by the explosive innings by Glenn Phillips, thrashed the hosts to set a target of 330 in the first innings. The chase initially seemed to be progressing uneventfully until an unfortunate incident stunned the Gaddafi crowd. Star New Zealand batter Rachin Ravindra took a nasty blow square on his forehead while fielding at deep square leg. The impact left onlookers in shock as Ravindra appeared dazed while kneeling on the ground. Moments later, blood started streaming down his face, forcing him to leave the field.

Rachin Ravindra's accident enrages fans against the preparation at Pakistan venues ahead of ICC Champions Trophy

The cricketing world was left stunned late on Saturday when one of New Zealand's key batters suffered a direct hit to his forehead during the first Pakistan vs New Zealand ODI. The incident occurred in the 37th over of the chase when Khushdil Shah slog-swept a delivery from Michael Bracewell. Preparing to take the catch, Ravindra appeared to lose sight of the ball under the floodlights. Unable to track the ball's position, he took a direct hit to his face, leaving him momentarily disoriented. The medical team stationed near the boundary line responded immediately, rushing in with a stretcher as blood began to pour from his forehead. While the stretcher was ultimately not needed, Ravindra was assisted off the field with a towel pressed against his wound.

The issue, seemingly caused by the floodlights at the Gaddafi Stadium, has sparked fresh controversy for Pakistan. The country has been racing against time to prepare its venues for the ICC Champions Trophy. With renovations in Rawalpindi, Karachi, and Lahore barely completed in time for the tournament, Pakistan has already faced heavy criticism for its lax approach. Now, Ravindra's injury, one that could potentially rule him out of both the tri-series and the ICC Champions Trophy, has raised further questions for the hosts.

Calls on social media have intensified, urging the ICC to reconsider Pakistan as the host nation for the upcoming marquee event. Frustrated fans have reignited debates about Pakistan’s readiness to stage such a prestigious tournament. Meanwhile, New Zealand Cricket has confirmed that Ravindra suffered a ‘laceration’ on his forehead but reassured that he is otherwise doing well.

"Ravindra was forced from the field after being struck in the forehead by the ball while attempting a catch in the 38th over," a New Zealand Cricket statement read. "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."