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New Zealand In Trouble! Lockie Ferguson Might Miss Champions Trophy After Injury Scare

Soumyajit Dutta

Lockie Ferguson might miss out from New Zealand's Champions Trophy squad [Source: @BhttDNSH100/X.com]Lockie Ferguson might miss out from New Zealand's Champions Trophy squad [Source: @BhttDNSH100/X.com]

New Zealand’s build-up to the Champions Trophy has been disrupted by concerns over fast-bowling allrounder Lockie Ferguson’s fitness. Ferguson has been reported to suffer a hamstring injury during the UAE’s ILT20 Qualifier 1 match between Desert Vipers and Dubai Capitals.

The 32-year-old, who captains the Desert Vipers in the league, pulled up mid-spell during the clash against the Dubai Capitals, forcing him to abandon his over. Lockie Ferguson was replaced by Mohammad Amir for the final delivery of his spell.

Ferguson Undergoes Scans 

Scans conducted in the UAE revealed a suspected minor hamstring tear, but New Zealand head coach Gary Stead confirmed the team is awaiting a detailed medical assessment to determine the severity. “We’ve received the scan images and are consulting our specialists to understand the recovery timeline. A decision on his participation in the upcoming tours will follow,” Stead stated as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

Ferguson’s absence extended to the Eliminator against the Sharjah Warriors, with England’s Sam Curran stepping in as captain. His prolonged unavailability has heightened worries within the New Zealand camp, particularly with the Champions Trophy opener against Pakistan in Karachi just weeks away.

New Zealand Might Miss Out On One Of Their Most Experienced Bowlers

As one of the squad’s most experienced pace bowlers, Lockie Ferguson’s potential exclusion could weaken New Zealand’s attack. Seamer Jacob Duffy has been placed on standby, with teams permitted to finalize squad changes until February 12.

The injury casts uncertainty over New Zealand’s preparations for the February 8 Tri-Series against Pakistan and South Africa, a critical tune-up ahead of the ICC event. Team management now faces tough decisions over whether to risk Ferguson’s inclusion or rely on backup options to fill the void.