New Zealand suffer a huge blow ahead of their ODI series against hosts Sri Lanka, as Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the entire series due to injury.
The hat-trick hero of the Kiwi's in the last T20I failed to bowl his full quota of overs, as he walked off the field right after the completion of his second over, where he grabbed a sensational hat-trick, which eventually, turned the course of the match in visitors' favour.
"BLACKCAPS bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Sri Lanka after sustaining a left calf injury in Monday morning’s T20I victory in Dambulla. Ferguson will return home to New Zealand today for scans which will determine the extent of the injury and the period of rehabilitation required," read the official statement released by New Zealand Cricket.
Adam Milne Named As Lockie Ferguson's Replacement
Fellow star pacer Adam Milne will take the place of 'injured' Lockie Ferguson in the ODI squad of New Zealand, confirmed by New Zealand Cricket.
"We’re gutted for Lockie. He showed in the space of just two overs what an asset he is with the ball and he’s also brought a lot of leadership to this group, so he’ll be a big miss heading into an important ODI series for us. To be ruled out so early in a tour is always tough to take, but we’re hopeful his recovery will be short and he’ll be back out on the field in no time," said Gary Stead, New Zealand head coach.
"Adam is a like-for-like replacement who brings genuine pace and plenty of international experience, so we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the group," he added.