On Sunday, November 16, New Zealand and the West Indies kicked off their three-match ODI series at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. After winning the toss, the visitors, the Windies, opted to field first hoping for some early breakthroughs in what appeared to be helpful scenes. New Zealand went on to score a sound 269/7 in their 50 overs, with Jaydon Seales giving the best performance, ending with three valuable wickets. Nevertheless, not everything was going perfectly for the West Indies, as one of their key players would suffer an unfortunate injury during the innings.

Romario Shepherd, a key part of the Windies white-ball setup, would only bowl four overs before leaving the field with discomfort to the thigh area. The way the all-rounder hobbled out created an immediate cause for concern for teammates, and fans alike. A short time later the West Indies team management confirmed that Shepherd had pain in his left hamstring, and he would not be returning to the field for the New Zealand innings. 

The update also confirmed that though Shepherd was unfit to continue bowling, he was still available to bat should it be required. In an official statement, West Indies Cricket said he would be monitored closely and indicated that management did not want to take any chances with one of their leading all-rounders. This precautionary measure is meant to lessen the risk of Jenkins aggravating the injury as there are still two ODIs to be played.

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RCB Camp Concerned as IPL Star Faces Fitness Scare

Shepherd's injury has also caused a strong reaction from fans in India, particularly Royal Challengers Bengaluru supporters. The 30-year-old was a critical part of RCB's historic title win in 2025, which ended a lengthy trophy drought and his historic final quarter played an essential role in the franchise's ascendance to significant success. Given his all-area contributions throughout RCB's successful campaign, the franchise considers him an integral part of their future planning.

Just a day before the match, on November 15, RCB revealed their retention list for IPL 2026, with Shepherd highlighting the names expected to maintain the roster prevailing under Rajat Patidar's leadership. Since IPL is just a couple of months away, any injury concern surrounding the Caribbean behemoth will cause worry for the franchise. For now, the club and RCB faithful will hope that Shepherd's hamstring issue is minor, and that he is fully recovered in-time for a crucial season, built on the notion of defending the championship in Bengaluru.