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Lockie Ferguson Ruled Out of ICC Champions Trophy, Kyle Jamieson Named Replacement
New Zealand Suffers Major Blow as Ferguson Exits Due to Foot Injury
New Zealand’s pace attack has suffered a significant setback as fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a foot injury. The Black Caps have named Kyle Jamieson as his replacement in the squad.
Ferguson, who has been struggling with injuries lately, experienced pain in his right foot during an informal warm-up game against Afghanistan in Karachi. Following an initial medical assessment, New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that the speedster would not recover in time for the tournament.
Ferguson’s Injury and Its Impact on New Zealand
Recurring Fitness Issues Keep Ferguson Out
Ferguson’s absence from the Champions Trophy adds to a series of injury concerns for the New Zealand squad. He did not participate in the recent tri-series and also suffered a hamstring injury during the International League T20 (ILT20). His latest foot injury has now ruled him out of yet another crucial ICC event.
With the Champions Trophy being a short-format tournament, NZC decided to send Ferguson home for rehabilitation instead of keeping him in the squad with hopes of a late recovery.
Doubt Over IPL 2025 Availability
The injury not only rules Ferguson out of international duty but also raises doubts over his Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 participation. Ferguson, who was signed by Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the upcoming IPL season, faces a race against time to regain fitness before the tournament begins on March 22, 2025. PBKS is scheduled to play their first game against Gujarat Titans on March 25, 2025.
Head Coach Gary Stead’s Reaction
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead expressed disappointment over Ferguson’s injury, emphasizing his importance in the squad:
“We’re really disappointed for Lockie. He is a key part of the bowling group and brings a lot of major tournament experience. We know how much he was looking forward to representing New Zealand at another major event. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him back in action soon.”
Kyle Jamieson’s Return to the Black Caps Setup
Jamieson’s Comeback After Long Injury Layoff
With Ferguson sidelined, the 6’8″ tall Kyle Jamieson will step in to bolster New Zealand’s pace attack. Jamieson, who has not played for the national team since February 2023, spent nearly 10 months recovering from a stress fracture in his back.
However, since his return to domestic cricket in December 2024, the towering pacer has made an impressive comeback. He was instrumental in Canterbury Kings’ journey to the Super Smash final, finishing as the tournament’s joint second-highest wicket-taker with 14 wickets.
Why New Zealand Picked Jamieson
Stead praised Jamieson’s recent performances and expressed confidence in his ability to perform on Pakistani pitches:
“Kyle brings plenty of pace and extra bounce, which will suit the conditions here in Pakistan. Since returning in the Dream11 Super Smash, he has shown how effective he can be in the shorter formats. He has bowled with real pace and energy, which is what you look for from a fast bowler, especially at a pinnacle event like the Champions Trophy.”
Additionally, Jamieson has been playing regularly in the Ford Trophy, ensuring his fitness levels are up to international standards. The selectors believe his workload over the past few months has adequately prepared him for the tournament.
New Zealand’s Growing Injury Concerns
Ferguson is the second Kiwi fast bowler to be ruled out of the tournament. Earlier, Ben Sears was sidelined due to injury, leading to the inclusion of Jacob Duffy in the squad. With two key pacers missing, New Zealand’s bowling unit will rely heavily on Jamieson, Trent Boult, and Tim Southee.
Despite these setbacks, the Black Caps remain a formidable side with a well-balanced squad heading into the Champions Trophy.
What’s Next for Ferguson and New Zealand?
Ferguson’s immediate focus will be on rehabilitation, with hopes of regaining fitness before IPL 2025. Meanwhile, New Zealand will look to make the most of their squad depth as they aim for their first-ever ICC Champions Trophy title.
For more updates on New Zealand cricket, check out our latest coverage on Black Caps squad news.
For additional information on the ICC Champions Trophy schedule and teams, visit ICC’s official website.
