Massive Blow For KKR as Ace Player Suffers Hamstring Injury Ahead Of IPL 2023
Ferguson will miss the first ODI against Sri Lanka [Source: Twitter]
In an unfortunate turn of events, experienced New Zealand seamer Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the first ODI against Sri Lanka due to a right hamstring injury. Ferguson, set to feature for Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL 2023, was declared unfit for the Sri Lanka series opener after failing a fitness test this morning. New Zealand Cricket is yet to name his replacement.
Despite being a gifted bowler, Ferguson's international career hasn't really taken off due to frequent injury setbacks.
His injury on the eve of the IPL comes as a massive blow for the Knight Riders, who secured his services for a whopping INR 10 Crores.
Although KKR have a formidable new-ball bowling pair of Umesh Yadav and Tim Southee, they will rely on Ferguson to choke the opposition in the slog overs. So, if the Kiwi speedster misses the tournament, we might see KKR exit the competition earlier than expected.
To note, KKR are already set to miss their skipper Shreyas Iyer, probably for the entire season, as the batter will undergo back surgery in the UK.
In the Mumbai batter's absence, Shardul Thakur and Nitish Rana are apparently the front-runners to lead the franchise in the showpiece event.
However, considering Southee's leadership experience, we shouldn't be surprised if the ace pacer is given the responsibility to captain the side.
Meanwhile, New Zealand, after securing a 2-0 victory in the Tests, will take on Sri Lanka in a three-match ODI series starting this Saturday.
 "Debashis Sarangi")
