Lockie Ferguson ruled out of T20 World Cup with calf tear

The New Zealand pace bowler injured his calf during training on Tuesday, October 25. Adam Milne will replace him in the 15-man squad, subject to ICC approval

Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the T20 World Cup with a calf tear.

The New Zealand pace bowler, who has taken 24 wickets in 13 T20Is, felt tightness in his right calf during training on Tuesday, October 25, and an MRI scan subsequently revealed a grade two tear. His recovery time is three to four weeks.

Adam Milne, who travelled to the UAE as injury cover, is expected to take his place in the 15-man squad. However, the 29-year-old is unable to play until he receives approval from the ICC, ruling him out of selection for New Zealand’s tournament opener against Pakistan on October 26.

^{Adam Milne, pictured playing for Sydney Thunder, is expected to replace Ferguson}

Commenting on Ferguson’s withdrawal, New Zealand coach, Gary Stead, said: "It’s a real shame for Lockie to have this happen on the eve of the tournament and the entire team is really feeling for him right now.

"He’s a massive part of our T20 side and has been in such good form - so to lose him at this time is a blow.

"However, we are fortunate to have a like for like replacement in the form of Adam Milne who has been with the squad training for the past two weeks."

New Zealand begin their T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan on October 26 before facing India (October 31), Scotland (November 3), Namibia (November 5) and Afghanistan (November 17).