New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy with a foot injury. Kyle Jamieson has been called up as his replacement.
Ferguson, who didn't feature in the tri-series and suffered a hamstring injury during the International League T20, experienced pain in his right foot while bowling in an informal warm-up match against Afghanistan in Karachi on Sunday.
"An initial medical assessment indicated he would not be fit enough to take part in the entire tournament," New Zealand Cricket said in a media release. "Given the proximity to the start of the Champions Trophy and the short nature of the tournament, the decision was made to send Ferguson home to begin rehabilitation," the release further said.
Ferguson's recovery timeline remains uncertain, raising questions about his availability for IPL 2025. The Punjab Kings' recruit faces a race against time, with the season starting on March 22 and PBKS set to open their campaign against Gujarat Titans on March 25.
"We're really disappointed for Lockie," said head coach Gary 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."
Ferguson's injury opens the door for Jamieson, who hasn't played for New Zealand since February last year. Since then, he's spent 10 months on the sidelines, recovering from a stress fracture in his back. Jamieson made his comeback into domestic cricket in December, playing a key role in taking Canterbury Kings to the Super Smash final and finishing the tournament with the joint second-most wickets (14).
"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 matches mean he will be good to go if required in the tournament."
Ferguson is the second New Zealand pacer to be ruled out of the tournament after Ben Sears, who was replaced by Jacob Duffy.
