Star bowler forced out of ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to injury, he is replaced by emerging talent.

New Delhi: The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to kick off tomorrow, Wednesday, February 19. The much-anticipated opening match will feature hosts Pakistan taking on New Zealand. However, just ahead of the tournament, New Zealand has been dealt a blow as fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out due to injury. In his place, Kyle Jamieson has been called up to the squad. This is not the first injury setback for the Kiwis, as they had to make a previous replacement as well.

Lockie Ferguson Ruled Out Due to Injury
New Zealand Cricket confirmed that Ferguson experienced discomfort in his right leg after bowling in an informal practice match against Afghanistan in Karachi on Sunday. Initial medical evaluations suggested that he would not be fit enough to participate in the tournament. Considering the short duration of the Champions Trophy and Ferguson’s condition, the decision was made to send him home for rehabilitation.

Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson will replace Ferguson in the squad and is set to depart for Pakistan this evening. However, he will not be available for New Zealand’s opening match against Pakistan on February 19. Jamieson recently returned to domestic cricket in December, representing Canterbury Kings in the Super Smash after a 10-month break due to a stress fracture in his back.

Injury Woes Continue for New Zealand
New Zealand’s injury troubles don’t end with Ferguson. During the recent tri-series against Pakistan and South Africa, pacer Ben Sears was also ruled out due to injury, with Jacob Duffy taking his place in the Champions Trophy squad. Additionally, Rachin Ravindra, who suffered an injury during the ODI tri-series, is still not fully fit.

New Zealand Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025
Captain: Mitchell Santner
Players: Kane Williamson, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young, Jacob Duffy, and Kyle Jamieson.