New Zealand’s fast bowler Lockie Ferguson faces uncertainty after sustaining a hamstring injury in the ILT20, raising concerns for the upcoming Champions Trophy and Pakistan tri-series.
February 8, 2025: New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has cast doubt over his participation in the upcoming Champions Trophy and the Pakistan tri-series after suffering a hamstring injury during the UAE’s ILT20. The incident occurred during the first qualifier, where Ferguson, captaining the Desert Vipers, left the field without completing his final over. The injury left Mohammad Amir to deliver the last ball, which Sikandar Raza struck for four, sealing Dubai Capitals’ spot in the final.
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Following the match, Ferguson commented, “Just a little hamstring issue, unfortunate. Tough night; wish I could’ve bowled the last ball.” He underwent a scan the following day, and New Zealand head coach Gary Stead confirmed they are awaiting a detailed report to decide Ferguson’s availability.
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Key Concerns for New Zealand
Ferguson is New Zealand’s most experienced pacer for the Champions Trophy, and his absence could disrupt the team’s preparations. The injury comes at a critical time, as the Black Caps are set to play their opening Champions Trophy game against Pakistan on February 19 in Karachi. Stead hinted at rotating bowlers during the Pakistan tri-series to manage workloads effectively, given the tight schedule.
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Meanwhile, the return of Kane Williamson and Devon Conway from their franchise commitments offers a boost to the squad. Jacob Duffy, already named as a standby, could replace Ferguson if the injury sidelines him for an extended period.
ILT20 and Player Workloads
Ferguson’s injury highlights the strain of tournament cricket. During his ILT20 stint, he played only eight out of 12 matches to manage his workload. Vipers’ director of cricket, Tom Moody, admitted, “We’ve tried to manage player rotations, but the packed schedule adds both physical and mental fatigue.”
New Zealand selectors have until February 12 to make adjustments to their Champions Trophy squad. With Ferguson yet to play an ODI since the 2023 World Cup, his inclusion remains a key talking point.
A Test of Resilience
As New Zealand braces for back-to-back fixtures in Pakistan and the Champions Trophy, the focus will be on balancing player fitness and performance. Stead emphasized, “The Champions Trophy is the big tournament. We want to ensure everyone is fit and firing for it.”
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