Ferguson will be unavailable for New Zealand’s last group-stage fixture on Tuesday, February 17, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, but he is expected to return to the subcontinent for the Super Eights, should New Zealand qualify. Walter confirmed that the team would not name a replacement, as travelling reserves Ben Sears and Cole McConchie are ready to step in if required.
“It’s an incredibly exciting time for Lockie and Emma, and we’re pleased that he’ll be at home for such a special occasion. At this stage, we won’t be replacing Lockie in the squad, as the plan is for him to return for the Super Eight phase. Our travelling reserves, Ben Sears and Cole McConchie, are ready to be called into the squad should we need them,” Walter said, according to ESPNcricinfo.
The clash against Canada is crucial for New Zealand, with a win set to confirm their qualification for the Super Eights. Currently second in Group D, the BlackCaps have won two of their three matches so far, with their only defeat coming against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.
With Ferguson unavailable, New Zealand may turn to tall pacer Kyle Jamieson for the final group-stage game. Jamieson, who joined the squad as a replacement for the injured Adam Milne, will be eager to make an impact and prove his worth ahead of the tournament’s later stages.
