Gary Stead, New Zealand’s head coach, has issued an update regarding the availability of speedster Lockie Ferguson for the upcoming match in the ICC World Cup 2023. It has been confirmed by Gary Stead that Lockie Ferguson is currently dealing with an Achilles injury.

During the team’s commanding 190-run victory over South Africa at the MCA Stadium in Pune on November 1, Ferguson was unable to secure a spot in the playing XI. This marked the Black Caps’ third consecutive loss in the prestigious tournament.

The 32-year-old sustained the injury during the match against Australia in Dharamsala on October 28. While bowling, the right-arm pacer experienced discomfort in his right Achilles and had to leave the field in the middle of an over. Unfortunately, he did not make a return to the field to resume his bowling duties.

Gary Stead Provides Update on Lockie Ferguson’s Ongoing Achilles Injury

Gary Stead, the head coach of New Zealand, has expressed uncertainty regarding Lockie Ferguson’s availability for the upcoming game against Pakistan. He mentioned that the decision to include Kyle Jamieson in the match will depend on Ferguson’s condition.

“Lockie Ferguson is currently managing an Achilles injury, and his status for the next game against Pakistan is uncertain, perhaps even less than 50-50. We will evaluate his condition and decide whether Kyle Jamieson will be in the playing XI for the upcoming match,” stated Gary Stead.

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The New Zealand team has been grappling with a series of injuries in the ongoing World Cup 2023. Notable players like Kane Williamson, Mark Chapman, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, and James Neesham are currently nursing injuries. In the last match, Tim Southee made a comeback to the team.

Despite a strong start in the tournament with four consecutive victories, New Zealand faced back-to-back defeats against India, Australia, and South Africa. To secure a spot in the semifinals, they must win at least one of their remaining two matches.

Upcoming Fixtures:

• November 4 – New Zealand vs Pakistan, Bengaluru, 10.30 am IST
• November 9 – New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, Bengaluru, 2.00 pm IST

New Zealand World Cup Squad:

Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (c & wk), Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Trent Boult, Tim Southee, Ish Sodhi, Mark Chapman, Kane Williamson