The New Zealand star’s participation in the India series is in doubt after a freak injury

ByTech Word News

Rachin Ravindra of New Zealand (AP photo) Rachin Ravindra’s availability for New Zealand’s upcoming five-match T20I series against India has been questioned after he dislocated his right shoulder during a promotional shoot in Auckland.The all-rounder suffered the injury on Wednesday (September 16) while attempting to dive while filming with Sky. According to New Zealand performance manager Mike Sandle, Ravindra landed awkwardly on the safety mat.An initial examination by medical specialists on Friday (September 18) found no major structural damage. However, the 25-year-old’s recovery time will depend on how he responds during the early stages of his rehabilitation.The T20I series against India is set to begin on October 22, leaving Ravindra with just over a month to recover. However, his availability for the series remains uncertain.“It was a really unfortunate injury,” Sandle said. “We are gutted for Rachin and our key priority is to make sure he recovers well and gets back on the field as soon as possible.”“As with all commercial filming involving our players, the activities were pre-agreed upon by all parties, with appropriate safeguards in place. This was a bit of a freak accident and we will continue to review our processes around events such as this in the future.”New Zealand also want to avoid taking any unnecessary risks with Ravindra given the busy Test calendar the team faces in the next six months.Head coach Rob Walter said the focus will be on making sure the player makes a full recovery rather than pushing him back prematurely.“With a tough Test cricket schedule over the next six months, we don’t want to rush Rachin back any sooner than necessary. He is in great hands in terms of his rehabilitation and we look forward to welcoming him back soon,” Walter said.New Zealand are set to name their T20I squad for the India series early next week, with Ravindra’s rehabilitation progress likely to be a key factor in determining his availability.