New Zealand’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign suffered a setback as fast bowler Ben Sears was ruled out due to a hamstring tear, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed on Friday. Meanwhile, all-rounder Rachin Ravindra continues his recovery after suffering a head injury during the ongoing ODI tri-series in Pakistan.
Ben Sears’ Injury & Replacement
Sears experienced discomfort in his left hamstring during New Zealand’s first training session in Karachi. A subsequent scan revealed a minor tear, which requires a minimum of two weeks of rehabilitation. As a result, Jacob Duffy, who is already in Pakistan for the tri-series, will replace him in the Champions Trophy squad.
Rachin Ravindra’s Concussion Concerns
Ravindra was struck on the forehead while attempting a catch in a match against Pakistan in Lahore last Saturday. Though he initially cleared his Head Injury Assessment (HIA), he later developed headaches, delaying his return.
Head coach Gary Stead confirmed that Ravindra remains under concussion protocols and will not feature in the tri-series final against Pakistan. His availability for New Zealand’s opening Champions Trophy match against Pakistan remains uncertain.
“He had a headache for a few days, but it’s subsiding, which is good news,” Stead said. “He had a few balls tonight for the first time, but there are still a few more steps before he is fit to play.”
Lockie Ferguson Nearing Return
In better news for New Zealand, pace bowler Lockie Ferguson is expected to return for Sunday’s warm-up match against Afghanistan in Karachi.
With injuries affecting the squad, New Zealand faces early challenges ahead of their Champions Trophy 2025 campaign.
