Lockie Ferguson, the fast bowler from New Zealand, has suffered a significant setback due to an injury just prior to the ICC T20 World Cup that is set to take place in India and Sri Lanka. The 34-year-old pacer picked up a right calf injury while playing for the Desert Vipers in an ILT20 league match for MI Emirates in Dubai on December 21.
Just three deliveries into the second over, Ferguson was compelled to walk off the field due to clutching at his calf. This knocked him out of the rest of the ILT20 tournament; Sam Curran took up the responsibilities of captaincy of the Vipers.
BBL Withdrawal Raises World Cup Concerns
After this incident of ILT20, Lockie Ferguson has been withdrawn from the ongoing match of the Big Bash League (BBL), in which he was going to perform for the Sydney Thunder. Due to this incident, concerns have been increased about his presence in the T20 World Cup in early February.
He was expected to take the field in a five-match T20I series against India for preparation for the tournament. The Kiwis are scheduled to start their World Cup campaign against Afghanistan on the 8th of February in Chennai.
Injury History and Importance to New Zealand
Currently on a casual contract with New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Lockie Ferguson last appeared for the national side in November 2024. He was earlier ruled out of the Champions Trophy following a hamstring injury he sustained during last season’s ILT20.
Read More
When fit, Ferguson is a key member for New Zealand, who relies on him to bowl regularly above 145 kmph and a fine arsenal of slower-ball variations, including the knuckle ball.
Sydney Thunder and Desert Vipers React
Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said he was disappointed that Ferguson would not be available to the club, adding, “He’s been one of the standout players in the Big Bash and also makes major contributions away from the game itself.
“We’re gutted that Lockie won’t be with us this year. Not only does he bowl 150kph with great experience, but he’s also one of the best humans in cricket, too.” Copeland said.
The English all-rounder David Willey has already signed up as the replacement of Ferguson for Thunder, while Desert Vipers roped in Pakistan mystery spinner Usman Tariq.
New Zealand’s Fast-Bowling Woes Continue
The fast bowling resources of New Zealand were already stretched, with Will O’Rourke ruled out of the T20 World Cup owing to a back injury. O’Rourke, like Ferguson, has the reputation of being a hit-the-deck bowler. The loss of Lockie Ferguson, therefore, has become an urgent necessity for the Kiwis.
Adam Milne Returns Strongly in SA20
In the midst of concerns, there was positive news for New Zealand as Adam Milne recovered well on his return to action from an ankle injury at SA20. After four months, Milne impressed on his return as he grabbed 2 wickets for 7 runs against Paarl Royals, following it up with a match-winning performance, taking four wickets for 25 runs against Pretoria Capitals.
Milne also introduced a slower ball, dismissing Hope with a YORKER. He is set to return to New Zealand’s T20I contingent in India following the SA20 duties for Sunrisers Eastern Cape.
Other Pace Options
Kyle Jamieson is back in action in the Super Smash for Canterbury in New Zealand. He is scheduled to travel to India for the ODI as well as the T20 international series. Emerging fast bowler Matt Fisher has now recovered from his shin problem, playing for Northern Districts.
ALSO READ: IND vs NZ ODI: Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill Return To India’s Squad
