Cricket: NZ lose Ferguson for remainder of Sri Lanka tour

Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of New Zealand’s upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka, with the fast bowler injuring his calf in the second T20I on Sunday.

Ferguson was instrumental in the Black Caps’ five-run victory in Dambulla on the weekend, taking a hat-trick that reduced Sri Lanka to 34/4.

However, the 33-year-old felt discomfort in his calf during his second over, causing him to leave the field and not return after bowling just two overs.

Initial assessments have ruled out Ferguson from the remainder of the tour, with further scans to be conducted back in New Zealand.

“We’re gutted for Lockie,” New Zealand coach Gary Stead said on Monday.

“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.

“He’ll be a big miss heading into an important ODI series for us.

“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.”

Ferguson had only just returned from a hamstring injury, having not played for the Black Caps since June 2024.

Fellow pacer Adam Milne has been called into the squad as a replacement and will reach Sri Lanka in time for the first ODI on Wednesday.

“Adam is a like-for-like replacement who brings genuine pace and plenty of international experience,” Stead said.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming him into the group.”

New Zealand are nearing the end of a long subcontinental tour which has delivered a mixed bag of results.

After a 2-0 Test series loss to Sri Lanka in September, the Kiwis bounced back with a historic 3-0 whitewash of India after Tom Latham took over the captaincy from Tim Southee.

NZ are heavy underdogs at cricket bookmakers coming into their three ODI matches against Sri Lanka, paying odds of +275 for a series win.

Sports news