Lockie Ferguson Ruled Out Of Test Series Against Pakistan With A Stress Fracture

New Zealand pacer, Lockier Ferguson has been ruled out for four to six weeks of cricket owing to a partial stress fracture to his back which he suffered in the recent T20I series against West Indies. Lockie was Man of the Series versus Kieron Pollard’s side; he took 7 wickets in 3 matches including a five-wicket haul. Fortunately, he wouldn’t be needing any surgery.

Ferguson was ruled out from the two-match Test series against Jason Holder’s side and now is set to miss all the games against Pakistan. New Zealand hosts Babar Azam’s contingent for 3 T20I starting 18th December in Auckland, followed by a couple of Test matches.

Lockie Ferguson is one of the best white-ball pacers in the world: Gart Stead

New Zealand head coach, Gary Stead expressed his disappointment at Ferguson missing out from important matches. He understands that injuries are part of a bowler’s career, however, it hurts more when they happen as the pacer is reaching his peak.

Lockie Ferguson with his express pace was vital in keeping the hopes for a playoff berth alive for Kolkata Knight Riders’ in the IPL- although it was observed that the seamer could have been used more judiciously by Eoin Morgan.

“We’re all really feeling for Lockie. Injuries are certainly part of our sport, but to get something like this when you’re at the very top of your game is especially disappointing,” said Gary Stead.

Stead feels that Lockie Ferguson is one of the finest limited-overs seamer currently, and is an asset to whichever team he plays for. He said that the 29-year-old pacer is putting hard work in rehab and hoping to be back soon. The Black Caps are hosting a big home season. After Pakistan, neighbors Australia will visit for 5 T20Is followed by Bangladesh for six limited-overs matches.

“The pace and skill he’s been able to consistently produce have made him one of the very best white-ball bowlers in the world and a huge asset. Lockie has a great attitude and I know he’s up for the fight so he’ll get stuck into the rehab and we’re still hopeful he may get back on the park at the back end of summer,” Stead added.

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