A Pakistan journalist has slammed Indian media for spreading false news about New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra's phone getting stolen during the tri-series that preceded the Champions Trophy 2025. Faizan Lakhani, the journalist, revealed that the Black Caps' media manager had confirmed that the news was false and feels Indian media lacks professionalism.
According to media reports, the spin-bowling all-rounder's phone was stolen in Lahore after he got injured during the tri-series opener against the hosts. The PCB also faced flak for the floodlights at the Gaddafi Stadium that allegedly caused Ravindra to not spot the ball while catching it and it eventually hit him on the face, leading him to bleed.
Taking to X, Faizan wrote:
"The Indian media’s propaganda continues, they just can’t accept that Pakistan is hosting a major ICC tournament. The news about Rachin Ravindra’s phone is completely false, as confirmed by the New Zealand team’s media manager. If only the Indian media had bothered to verify with an official before airing fake news, but expecting professionalism from them is asking too much."
Pakistan under enormous pressure ahead of facing India
Meanwhile, Pakistan, led by Mohammad Rizwan are under enormous pressure as Team India await to face them on February 23 in Dubai. Having lost to New Zealand by 60 runs in the tournament-opener, the Men in Green must win in Dubai else, risk facing elimination from the competition.
They also have an injury issue as Fakhar Zaman has effectively been ruled out of the tournament due to a back injury.
