New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the ODI series against Sri Lanka due to a calf injury sustained during Sunday’s T20I match in Dambulla. Ferguson, who had just returned from a hamstring issue, picked up the injury while bowling his second over in New Zealand’s series-levelling T20I victory.
Despite the setback, Ferguson helped turn the game in New Zealand’s favour, claiming a hat-trick and playing a key role in defending a modest total of 108. However, after feeling discomfort during his second over, he was forced to leave the field and could not complete his spell. He was later named Player of the Match for his performance.
Ferguson will return to New Zealand for further scans to determine the extent of the injury. As a result, he has been ruled out of the three-match ODI series, which begins on November 13.
In his place, veteran fast bowler Adam Milne has been called up to the squad. Milne, who has 49 ODIs and 53 T20Is to his name, will arrive in Dambulla on Tuesday as a like-for-like replacement. Head coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment over Ferguson’s injury, noting his leadership and impact on the team.
“We’re gutted for Lockie,” Stead said. “He showed in just two overs what an asset he is with the ball. Adam is an experienced player who brings genuine pace, and we’re excited to have him with us.”
New Zealand will now rely on a seam attack featuring Milne, Jacob Duffy, and Nathan Smith, with allrounders Zakary Foulkes and Josh Clarkson offering additional support.
Ferguson’s injury comes as New Zealand completes a lengthy subcontinent tour, which included a 0-2 Test series loss to Sri Lanka, a 3-0 ODI series win over India, and now the ongoing tour of Sri Lanka.
