NEWS
Follow UsNew Zealand express pacer Lockie Ferguson was ruled out of the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka after sustaining a left calf injury while bowling in the second T20I in Dambulla. He was replaced by Adam Milne, who’ll join the team for the ODI series.
Ferguson was in his second over when he felt discomfort in his calf and left the field. A medical assessment was done later, which indicated that his injury was serious enough to rule him out of the three crucial ODIs as the Blackcaps prepare for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan next year.
Ferguson, whose career has been peppered with numerous short and long-term injuries, will now travel back to New Zealand. The extent of his injury will be determined, and a rehabilitation course will be charted.
Glenn Phillips's heroics in the last over of the second T20I ensured that the Blackcaps won the game and drew the two-match T20I series.
Head Coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment on Ferguson’s injury but backed the like-for-like replacement in Milne to come good. “We’re gutted for Lockie,” Stead remarked.
“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, so 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.
“Adam is a like-for-like replacement who brings genuine pace and plenty of international experience, so we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the group.”
The three ODI series starts November 13 at Dambulla while it will end with the final match in Kandy on November 19.
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