Rachin Ravindra, a New Zealand batsman, was taken off the pitch after being hit on the forehead while trying to catch during the 38th over of their ODI tri-series game against Pakistan. Ravindra’s foul play caused by subpar floodlights at Gaddafi Stadium draws a lot of scrutiny on the PCB’s infrastructure.
New Zealand Cricket issued a note saying, “Rutindra’s head laceration has been handled and treated at the field, but is otherwise well.” He passed his first HIA with flying colors and will keep being managed using HIA protocols.”
Khushdil Shah’s shot toward Ravindra at deep backward square leg came in the 38th over of the game. Ravindra set himself for the catch but under the poor lighting lost track of the ball; it hit his face and started bleeding. He was removed from the field for further observation and for medication.
Injury aside, New Zealand won by 78 runs, with Pakistan sent off 252 in 47.5 overs aiming for 330. Kane Williamson scored 58, and Daryl Mitchell chipped in 81; Glenn Phillips made an unbeaten 106 from 74 balls.
Fans angry at the bad floodlights for Ravindra’s injury. One fan posted on X (formerly Twitter), ‘ PCB should better the ground light quality. Under poor lights, Rachin Ravindra misjudges the ball and gets a harsh blow close to the eye. Another remarked, “Rachin Ravindra is a much better fielder than the entire Pakistan team, but still cannot see the ball when catching?? Gaddafi Stadium has bad lights.”
How did @ICC allowed Pakistan's ground to host international matches??
ICC should ensure players safety and if Pakistan can't provide shift CHAMPIONS TROPHY to Dubai.
Prayers for Rachin Ravindra 🙏🏻#PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/77bvA7uqjv
— KohliForever (@KohliForever0) February 8, 2025
Several others wondered the ICC’s ruling on Pakistan’s permission to hold worldwide games with so poor lighting. “ICC should guarantee player safety and, if Pakistan can’t provide, relocate the Champions Trophy to Dubai. How did @ICC allow Pakistan≈;’s ground to host international games?? Another fan penned, “Rachin Ravindra will be in prayers.”
