Star New Zealand Pacer Doubtful for Tri-Nation ODI Series and Champions Trophy 2025
Lockie Ferguson, one of New Zealand’s premier fast bowlers, is facing an uncertain future regarding his participation in the Tri-Nation ODI Series and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a hamstring injury. The injury occurred during his stint with the Desert Vipers in the ILT20 on February 5, where he was unable to complete his spell, leaving the field after being forced to abandon the final delivery of his over.
After the match, Ferguson shared his disappointment, saying, “Just a little hamstring issue, unfortunate. Tough night; wish I could’ve bowled the last ball.”
Scans Awaited for Injury Assessment
New Zealand Cricket (NZC) is currently awaiting the results of Ferguson’s hamstring scans to determine the extent of the injury. The scans were conducted in the UAE on February 6, and New Zealand’s head coach, Gary Stead, spoke on the situation. He confirmed that the scans were already completed, but the team is awaiting the report from their radiologist.
Stead mentioned, “Lockie had a scan yesterday [Thursday] in the UAE. We’ve got the images here and [we are] waiting for our radiologist to give us a report on the extent of it.”
The coach noted that it appears to be a “small hamstring injury,” but further assessment will dictate whether Ferguson will be fit in time for New Zealand’s opening match of the Tri-Nation ODI series against Pakistan. Stead added, “We’re just waiting on a timeline of advice around that before we make a decision on whether Lockie travels here [Pakistan] or whether we do have to replace him for the Champions Trophy 2025.”
New Zealand Squad for Tri-Nation ODI Series
The following players have been named in New Zealand’s squad for the Tri-Nation ODI Series:
- Mitchell Santner (c)
- Will Young
- Devon Conway
- Rachin Ravindra
- Kane Williamson
- Mark Chapman
- Daryl Mitchell
- Tom Latham
- Glenn Phillips
- Michael Bracewell
- Nathan Smith
- Matt Henry
- Lockie Ferguson (subject to injury assessment)
- Ben Sears
- Will O’Rourke
- Jacob Duffy
The Tri-Nation ODI Series marks a crucial preparatory phase for teams ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. For New Zealand, the potential loss of Ferguson would be a significant blow, as his pace and aggression make him a key asset in all formats, especially in tournaments of such high stakes.
What’s Next for Lockie Ferguson?
With just weeks remaining before the Champions Trophy in 2025, the injury cloud hanging over Ferguson’s head could prompt New Zealand to consider replacements if he’s unable to recover in time. It remains to be seen whether he will be fit for the Tri-Nation ODI Series, but New Zealand will be hopeful for a quick recovery, with the radiologist’s report expected soon.
Ferguson’s status will be crucial for the team’s preparations as they aim for another strong showing in the Champions Trophy and beyond.
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