New Zealand won’t have the services of fast bowler Lockie Ferguson for their upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka. The speedster will miss the series after sustaining a calf injury in the second T20I on Sunday, November 10, in Dambulla. Adam Milne has replaced Ferguson in the Black Caps’ squad for the 50-over series.
The 33-year-old Ferguson is now set to return home to determine the extent of his injury and the time he needs for his rehabilitation. Gary Stead, the head coach of the Black Caps, was “gutted” after Ferguson injured himself.
“We’re gutted for Lockie. He showed in the space of just two overs what an asset he is with the ball, and he’s also brought a lot of leadership to this group, so he’ll be a big miss heading into an important ODI series for us,” Stead said.
Ferguson became the fifth New Zealand bowler in Men’s T20Is to pick up a hat-trick, taking the wickets of Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka and Kusal Perera. The others are Jacob Oram, Tim Southee, Michael Bracewell and Matt Henry.
It was his spell of 2-0-7-2 that helped the Kiwis won by five runs as the T20I series ended at 1-1. On the back of his fiery bowling, New Zealand successfully defended their lowest total of 108 in T20Is. Stead, however, backed Milne to add value to the limited-overs setup.
“To be ruled out so early in a tour is always tough to take, but we’re hopeful his recovery will be short, and he’ll be back out on the field in no time. Adam is a like-for-like replacement who brings genuine pace and plenty of international experience, so we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the group,” Stead added.
The first ODI is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, November 13 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
