Black Caps bowler returning home from T20 World Cup
Pace bowler Lockie Ferguson is returning home on Parental Leave. He will miss New Zealand's last Group D clash.
New Zealand quick Lockie Ferguson will depart the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup today to return home for the birth of him and his wife's first child.
It won't necessarily end his T20 World Cup campaign, should the Black Caps secure tournament progression and Ferguson is clear to return to the sub-continent in time.
The Kiwis lost to South Africa in their most recent T20 World Cup appearance. But after beating Afghanistan to launch their campaign, they are still firmly in the mix to advance to the Super 8 stage.
Ferguson will be unavailable for the team's final Group D contest against Canada on Tuesday, a game they may need to win to lock in tournament progression, pending other results.
Head coach Rob Walter is fully supportive of Ferguson’s leave.
“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,” the Black Caps coach said.
South Africa secure a comfortable win | Match Highlights | T20WC 2026
South Africa bossed their contest against New Zealand, securing a big win in Ahmedabad.
“At this stage, we won’t be replacing Lockie in the squad as the plan would be for him to return for the Super 8 phase of the tournament.
“But our travelling reserves Ben Sears and Cole McConchie are ready to be called into the squad should we need them.”
New Zealand's clash with Canada in Chennai is on Tuesday.
Ferguson knocks over the sticks | T20WC 2026
Lockie Ferguson knocked over the stumps of Quinton De Kock to give New Zealand against South Africa at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.
