Related Articles
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faced severe backlash on Sunday after New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra suffered a gruesome head injury during the first ODI of the tri-series against Pakistan in Lahore. The 24-year-old all-rounder was struck on the forehead while attempting a catch under the floodlights, resulting in a deep laceration and profuse bleeding, forcing him to leave the field.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many questioning Pakistan’s capability to host the Champions Trophy 2025 and demanding that the International Cricket Council (ICC) shift the tournament to Dubai for better safety standards.
Table of content
What Happened to Rachin Ravindra?
The injury occurred during the 37th over of Pakistan’s innings when Khushdil Shah slog-swept Michael Bracewell towards deep square leg. Ravindra, stationed near the boundary, lost sight of the ball amid the intense glare of the LED floodlights, causing it to smash into his forehead.
A stunned silence engulfed the Gaddafi Stadium as Ravindra collapsed to his knees, blood dripping from his face. The New Zealand medical staff and Pakistan’s team doctor rushed to his aid. He was treated on the field for a few minutes before being helped off, covering his face with a towel, receiving warm applause from the concerned crowd.
Calls for ICC to Rethink Pakistan as Champions Trophy Host
The freak injury has ignited concerns over player safety in Pakistan, particularly regarding poor visibility under LED floodlights. Social media erupted with calls for the Champions Trophy 2025 to be moved out of Pakistan, with Dubai emerging as a favored alternative.
Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif, speaking on Caught Behind, blamed the LED lighting system at the Gaddafi Stadium, explaining:
“The glow is more in such lights. Hence, when the ball travels flat, you are often unable to see it.”
Fans and analysts echoed Latif’s concerns, questioning if Pakistan’s infrastructure is up to international standards. Many have urged the ICC to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the need for safer venues that provide better visibility and playing conditions.
Latest Update on Rachin Ravindra’s Injury
Despite the alarming nature of the injury, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) has provided an optimistic update, stating that Ravindra is “well” but will continue to be monitored.
A statement from New Zealand Cricket read:
“Ravindra was forced from the field after being struck in the forehead by the ball attempting a catch in the 38th over. 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.”
While Ravindra’s participation in New Zealand’s next match against South Africa remains uncertain, his injury has reignited discussions over player safety in Pakistan, putting the PCB under immense scrutiny just weeks before the Champions Trophy.
With growing concerns and mounting pressure, will the ICC step in and relocate the tournament? The coming weeks could prove decisive.
