The New Zealand team has suffered a major setback before the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The team's star fast bowler, Lockie Ferguson, has been injured, due to which there is a doubt about his participation in the upcoming tournament.
Ferguson suffered a hamstring injury during the Qualifier 1 match of the ILT2025. He could not even complete his full spell and walked off the field in the middle of the match. In his absence, his team, Desert Vipers, also faced defeat. Only 1 run was to be defended on the last ball, but Mohammad Amir, who came to put the ball in his place, was hit for a four, and the team had to face defeat.
After the match, Ferguson said,
"Just a slight hamstring problem, unfortunate. It was a tough night; I wish I could have bowled the last ball. However, when he underwent a scan the next day, it was found that the injury was not minor."
The New Zealand coach gave an update on his availability and said,
"Just a slight hamstring problem, unfortunate. It was a tough night; I wish I could have bowled the last ball. However, when he underwent a scan the next day, it was found that the injury was not minor."
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead reacted to the injury, saying he is awaiting a report.
"Lockie has undergone a scan in the UAE, and we have asked for his report. At the moment it looks like a small hamstring injury, but we have to decide whether he will come to Pakistan or we have to choose another player for the Champions Trophy.”
Ferguson had already missed out on Qualifier 20 against Sharjah Warriors in Qualifier 2 of the ILT20. Now, it is also not certain whether he will be able to play in the final match on 9 February. If he doesn't play in the rest of this tournament, it will be a big blow for New Zealand, especially with the Champions Trophy so close.
If Ferguson returns to the team fit, it will be interesting to see how he performs on Pakistan pitches. So far, he has played only 3 matches in Pakistan and has taken 3 wickets, but his bowling average is 48.33, which is a bit worrying for him.
Now the question is, will New Zealand have to find a new fast bowler for the Champions Trophy, or will Ferguson be fit at the right time? It will clear up in the coming days.