Lockie Ferguson: Big setback for New Zealand! Star player ruled out of India T20I series | Cricket News
New Zealand have suffered another injury setback ahead of the fourth T20I against India, with fast bowler Lockie Ferguson ruled out of the remainder of the series and Matt Fisher called up as his replacement.Ferguson sustained an injury to his right calf during the second T20I at Hagley Oval. Scans subsequently confirmed a low-grade tear, with the pacer expected to need around another week of recovery before returning to action, New Zealand Cricket said in a statement on Thursday.The latest blow comes at a time when New Zealand’s fast-bowling attack has struggled to contain India’s aggressive batting throughout the series. India have already secured an unassailable 3-0 lead, with their batters making light work of the hosts’ bowling in all three matches.India chased down 225 in the opening T20I before successfully pursuing a target of 180 in the second match. The third T20I proved even more punishing for New Zealand, as India overhauled 199 in just 13.2 overs.While the pace attack has come under pressure, New Zealand’s spinners Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell have continued to do a good job in the series.
Matt Henry on track for ODI series
New Zealand have also provided an update on Matt Henry, who experienced pain in his right quadricep during the second T20I. Subsequent assessment revealed a low-grade tear, with the fast bowler expected to require one to two weeks to recover.Henry had been scheduled to return for the upcoming ODI series as part of a planned workload management programme. Despite the injury, he remains on track for that return.Meanwhile, Kyle Jamieson will stay in Wellington under his planned workload management schedule. He is available to play for Canterbury in their second-round Ford Trophy match on Saturday before rejoining the national team on Monday ahead of the ODI series.With the T20I series already decided, New Zealand will look to finish on a stronger note when the fourth match takes place at Eden Park in Auckland on Friday. The match is sold out, with India aiming to extend their dominance and the hosts seeking a response after three difficult outings with the ball.
