Tom Latham, the New Zealand wicketkeeper, has said that the Black Caps will not expedite Rachin Ravindra’s recovery for their Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan on February 19. Last week, Ravindra received a serious blow on his forehead while fielding during the first match of an ODI tri-series in Lahore and did not play any further part in the series.
Latham was speaking to the press on the eve of the opening match in place of captain Mitchell Santner and noted that they will assess Ravindra’s condition after their training on Tuesday at the National Stadium in Karachi.
As New Zealand trained during the late evening in Karachi, Ravindra was in sight of batting during the nets.
“He trains tonight, and then we should have a better idea of how he is progressing. Healing quite well; just need to be sure,” Latham said.
“It was a pretty nasty injury. When it is head-related, you want to be doubly sure everything is all right. He’s going through all the right protocols, and we’ll see how he goes,” he added.
Ravindra had a cut on the head as a result of being struck by a ball in the deep while fielding during the New Zealand game against Pakistan in Lahore. He began bleeding profusely and required immediate medical attention.
New Zealand confirmed last week that Ravindra sustained a laceration to his forehead but was recovering well after treatment.
Adding to New Zealand’s concerns, former champions will also be without Lockie Ferguson, who was ruled out on Tuesday due to injury. The team has called up Kyle Jamieson as his replacement, but the all-rounder will not join the squad until Wednesday.
“No, we haven’t finalised our XI yet. We have training now and will decide afterward. As you mentioned, Kyle Jamieson is arriving tomorrow, so unfortunately, he won’t be available for our first game but will be ready for the rest of the tournament,” Latham said.
Discussing the atmosphere in Karachi and the support Pakistan will enjoy, Latham added:
“I’m sure it’s going to be a packed crowd here in Karachi, and they’ll have plenty of support behind them. We’re really looking forward to the challenge, and I’m sure it’ll be another great game.”
New Zealand have enjoyed recent success against Pakistan and also boast a strong record against them in the Champions Trophy, having won all three of their previous encounters.
