PAK vs NZ, Tri-Series Final: Will Rachin Ravindra & Lockie Ferguson Feature For New Zealand Against Pakistan?

Add as a preferred source on Google

PAK vs NZ Tri-Series Final: New Zealand sweat on the fitness and availability of injured duo Rachin Ravindra and Lockie Ferguson heading into the decider against Pakistan at the National Stadium in Karachi on Friday (February 14).

While speedster Ferguson picked up a hamstring injury during the recently concluded ILT20 tournament in UAE, Ravindra suffered a blow to his face when fielding in the Tri-Series opener against Pakistan at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore.

Ravindra needed immediate attention as he suffered a laceration to his forehead after missing the ball under the lights of the newly-renovated and upgraded venue in Lahore. The all-rounder missed New Zealand's second match against South Africa.

Ferguson, who missed the last two matches for Desert Vipers, was doubtful to make it to the Champions Trophy, but the Black Caps included the quick in their final squad. Similarly, Ravindra also made the cut, having been named in the preliminary squad last month.

The pair will be hopeful of returning to action soon, and head coach Gary Stead provided an update on their status ahead of the Tri-Series final against Pakistan on Friday (February 14) morning.

Will Rachin Ravindra and Lockie Ferguson play in PAK vs NZ Tri-Series Final?

The duo are unlikely to feature in today's final at the National Stadium in Karachi. But may be available for next week's Champions Trophy opener against the same opponents at the same venue on February 19.

"Well Rachin, obviously got that nasty blow in Lahore to the forehead. So, the pleasing thing is he is progressing well. So, we're following HIA (Head Injury Assessment) protocols at the moment. So, he's had a headache for a few days. But that I guess is subsiding which is really good news," Stead said in a video posted by New Zealand Cricket's X handle.

"He (Ravindra) hit a few balls tonight (February 13) for the first time which is good. But there is still a few more steps for him to go through before he would be considered fit to play."

On Ferguson, Stead added, "Lockie's been out there. He's had a couple of bowls since been here. So, he's lifted the intensity up a little bit more tonight. Pleased with how he's tracking and certainly will look to have him playing in one of the next two games."