New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson is set to return to the side for their upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 clash against Pakistan. Ferguson missed New Zealand’s match against South Afruica after experiencing a niggle in his right Achilles.
New Zealand cricket confirmed Ferguson’s return by releasing an official statement. The right-arm fast-bowler walked off the game against Australia after picking up the injury.
“Lockie Ferguson’s scan on his right Achilles revealed no significant damage and it’s hoped he’ll be available for Saturday’s game against Pakistan in Bengaluru,” New Zealand cricket said in a statement.
New Zealand are dealing with a bunch of injuries which have affected their 2023 World Cup campaign. The Kiwis won the opening four matches in the tournament but have since lost their last three games.
As many as five players, including regular skipper Kane Williamson, have been sidelined with injuries. Williamson picked up a thumb injury against Bangladesh which has forced him to miss most of the matches in this tournament.
Ferguson picked up an Achilles injury, while Mark Chapman suffered a calf injury. They were hit with a couple more injuries against South Africa after pacer Matt Henry left the field clutching his hamstring, followed by James Neesham picking up a niggle.
“Matt Henry will undergo an MRI scan in the next 24 hours to ascertain the extent of the injury to his right hamstring. An update on Matt Henry’s scan will be provided once the results have been received and assessed,” New Zealand cricket said.
