ICC told ‘shift Champions Trophy to Dubai’ as PCB blamed for Rachin Ravindra injury
During the first ODI of the tri-series against Pakistan, New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra suffered a forehead injury while fielding, raising concerns about player safety and the suitability of Gaddafi Stadium as a venue. In the 38th over, while positioned at deep square leg, Ravindra attempted to catch a ball hit by Khushdil Shah but appeared to lose sight of it in the floodlights, resulting in the ball striking his forehead.
The incident left Ravindra bleeding and the stadium in shock. Medical personnel, including the Pakistan team doctor, attended to him on the field before he was helped off, his face covered with a towel. New Zealand Cricket reported that Ravindra sustained a laceration to the forehead, which was treated, and he “is otherwise well”. He will continue to be monitored under Head Injury Assessment (HIA) protocols.
The incident has sparked criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the floodlights at Gaddafi Stadium, with some questioning Pakistan’s ability to host the Champions Trophy. Concerns have been raised about the LED lights, with claims that their glare makes it difficult to track the ball. Despite the injury, New Zealand secured a 78-run victory over Pakistan.