New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra endured a frightening moment during the opening match of the Tri-Nation Series against Pakistan at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Fielding at deep square leg, Ravindra lost sight of the ball under the floodlights and was struck flush on the forehead. The impact left him bleeding profusely, and he remained motionless for a brief period, sending shockwaves through the stadium.

The incident, which occurred off a slog-sweep by Khushdil Shah, momentarily silenced the crowd and the New Zealand camp. Medical staff quickly attended to Ravindra, applying an ice pack to stem the bleeding before escorting him off the field. The game resumed after a short delay, with Michael Bracewell conceding five runs in the remaining three deliveries of the over. At the end of the 37th over, Pakistan were 204/5. Earlier, Ravindra had contributed a brisk 25 off 19 deliveries before being dismissed.

Pakistan Falter in Run Chase, Lose by 78 Runs

Chasing 331, Pakistan fell well short, managing only 252 in 47.5 overs. Fakhar Zaman was the lone standout with a valiant 84 off 69 balls, as no other batter crossed the 40-run mark. New Zealand’s bowlers delivered a clinical performance, with Mitchell Santner (3/41) and Matt Henry (3/45) leading the charge. Bracewell also chipped in with two wickets.

Earlier, New Zealand seemed to be heading towards a modest total at 207/5 after 40 overs. However, Glenn Phillips produced a scintillating knock, smashing his maiden ODI century to propel the visitors to a formidable 330 in their 50 overs.

With this victory, New Zealand take a 1-0 lead in the series and will next face South Africa on Monday, February 10.