Lockie Ferguson joins ICC Champions Trophy 2025 injury list; New Zealand announce replacement

New Zealand, led by all-rounder Mitchell Santner, has suffered another injury blow a day before the start of the much-anticipated ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the entire tournament, and the selectors have named a replacement on Tuesday, February 18.

Ferguson will miss the event due to a right foot injury. He felt pain in his foot after bowling during a warm-up match in Karachi on Sunday. Medical assessments confirmed that he would not be fit for the tournament, and the selectors decided to send Ferguson home to begin his rehabilitation.

Kyle Jamieson Set to Replace Injured Lockie Ferguson in New Zealand's Squad

Kyle Jamieson will replace the injured Lockie Ferguson in New Zealand's squad for the Champions Trophy and will travel to Pakistan immediately. Jamieson has played 45 internationals for New Zealand, including a Player of the Match award in the ICC World Test Championship 2021 Final against India.

He hasn't played an ODI since September 2023. After recovering from an injury, Jamieson returned to domestic cricket with Canterbury Kings in December and played a key role in their Super Smash campaign. The right-arm pacer also participated in recent Ford Trophy matches for Canterbury.

We’re Really Disappointed for Lockie Ferguson - Gary Stead

BLACKCAPS head coach Gary Stead is disappointed by Lockie Ferguson's injury, calling it tough news for both him and the team. Stead wished Ferguson a speedy recovery and hoped he would return to form soon.

“We’re really disappointed for Lockie,” said Stead.

“Lockie is a key part of the bowling group and brings a lot of major tournament experience and we know how much he was looking forward to representing New Zealand at another major event. We wish him well for his recovery and hope he is back firing soon,” he added.

Kyle Jamieson Brings Plenty of Pace and Extra Bounce - Gary Stead

Gary Stead expressed confidence in Kyle Jamieson replacing Lockie Ferguson, highlighting that Jamieson's pace and bounce will be effective in the conditions in Pakistan. Stead believes Jamieson is ready to contribute if needed in the Champions Trophy.

“Kyle brings plenty of pace and extra bounce which will suit the conditions here in Pakistan,” Stead said.

“He’s shown since returning in the Dream11 Super Smash how effective he can be in the shorter forms of the game, and he’s bowled with real pace and energy which is what you’re looking for from a pace bowler, especially at a pinnacle event.

“We’ve been pleased with the progress he’s made since returning and we feel his loading over the past few weeks and his successful spells in the recent Ford Trophy match mean he will be good to go if required in the tournament.”

Earlier this week, Ben Sears was ruled out of the tournament due to injury and was replaced by Jacob Duffy. The BLACKCAPS are set to begin their Champions Trophy campaign on February 19, facing hosts Pakistan in the tournament opener in Lahore.

Also read: ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Mohammad Yousuf picks India vs Pakistan winner