Pakistan vs New Zealand: What is the latest update on Rachin Ravindra injury?

Rachin Ravindra will be absent for the upcoming tri-series final between New Zealand and Pakistan, scheduled for Friday, February 14, at the National Stadium in Karachi. The promising all-rounder is still recovering from a head injury he sustained during the opening match of the tri-series against Pakistan. Ravindra suffered a blow to the forehead while attempting to field in the outfield, causing him to drop a catch. Although New Zealand triumphed by 78 runs in that match, Ravindra’s injury has kept him sidelined since then. New Zealand's head coach, Gary Stead, explained that Ravindra has been experiencing headaches for several days following the incident.

As a precaution, the all-rounder was also ruled out of New Zealand's second match against South Africa. Despite making a return to the nets on Thursday, Stead confirmed that Ravindra has yet to fully recover from the injury and has not regained complete fitness. While Ravindra's absence will be a blow to New Zealand’s lineup in the final, the team will be hoping for his swift recovery. The tri-series final will be a crucial match for both teams as they prepare for the Champions Trophy, with Ravindra’s absence creating an opportunity for other players to step up in the pivotal clash.

“The pleasing thing is that he’s progressing well. We’re following [head injury assessment] protocols at the moment,” New Zealand head coach Gary Stead was quoted as saying in a recent interview. 

“He’s had a headache for a few days but that’s subsiding, which is really good news. He hit a few balls tonight for the first time, which is good, but there are still a few more steps for him to go through before he can be considered fit for play," he added.

In a positive development for New Zealand, head coach Gary Stead provided an encouraging update on Lockie Ferguson’s injury status. The right-arm seamer has made significant progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury, which he had sustained while bowling during the 2025 ILT20. Ferguson, who has been sidelined for over 15 months, is now nearing his return to the ODI format. Ferguson’s injury had kept him out of international action for a considerable period, making his return highly anticipated. Stead confirmed that the fast bowler has been progressing well in his rehabilitation and is close to being fully fit. His recovery is a major boost for New Zealand, as Ferguson’s pace and experience are invaluable assets to the team, especially with the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy in mind.

While Ferguson is not part of the squad for the tri-series final, his return to the ODI fold is expected soon. The team will be eager to have the dynamic seamer back in action, and his inclusion will strengthen New Zealand’s bowling attack, adding depth and variety to their options. As the team continues to build momentum, Ferguson's return could play a crucial role in their preparations for the prestigious tournament.

“Lockie’s had a couple of bowls since he’s been here. He lifted the intensity up a little more tonight. Pleased with how he’s tracking so, certainly, we’ll look to have him playing in one of the next two games. If anyone’s got small niggles, we’re likely to be conservative around that, with the Champions Trophy just around the corner,” Stead concluded.