WI suffer Romario Shepherd injury blow during 1st NZ ODI
What's the story
West Indies all-rounder Romario Shepherd walked off the field due to an injury during the first ODI against New Zealand. The match is being played at Hagley Oval. After winning the toss, West Indies opted to field first. New Zealand managed to score 269/7 runs in their allotted 50 overs, with Jayden Seales being the standout bowler for West Indies, claiming three wickets. Daryl Mitchell scored a hundred for the hosts.
Injury impact
Shepherd's early exit raises concerns
Shepherd, a key player in the West Indies white-ball set-up, bowled just four overs before leaving the field with left hamstring discomfort. The news of his injury has raised concerns among fans, especially in the context of the Indian Premier League. West Indies cricket took to social media to clarify that Shepherd won't be returning for New Zealand's innings due to his left hamstring discomfort.
Injury update
West Indies cricket provides update on Shepherd's condition
The official statement from West Indies cricket read, "Injury Update- As a precaution, Romario Shepherd will not return to the field for the duration of the New Zealand innings. He is experiencing discomfort in his left hamstring and is being monitored by the medical team. Shepherd will be available to bat."
Twitter Post
Here is WI's post!
Injury Update 🚨
— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) November 16, 2025
As a precaution, Romario Shepherd will not return to the field for the duration of the New Zealand innings.
He is experiencing discomfort in his left hamstring and is being monitored by the medical team.
Shepherd will be available to bat. #NZvWI
IPL implications
Shepherd's injury could affect IPL 2026 plans
Shepherd's injury has also raised concerns among Indian fans as he is a key member of Royal Challengers Bengaluru's squad. He played a crucial role in helping Bengaluru end their 18-year-long trophy drought in 2025. The defending champions had released their retention list on November 15 for IPL 2026, confirming that Shepherd will continue to represent the Rajat Patidar-led side despite his current injury woes.