Lockie Ferguson returns home: South Africa cruised over New Zealand on Saturday while chasing 176 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The Proteas chased down the total with 7 wickets in hand and 17 balls left. Aiden Markram laid the foundation for the chase, after this win South Africa have becomes the first team to secure their place in the Super 8 spot.
After the match, Kiwi pacer Lockie Ferguson returned home. The speedster went back home for the birth of his and his wife Emma’s first child. His departure means that the bowler will not be available against the Kiwis final game against Canada. Ferguson has been one of the finest bowlers for the Black Caps in limited overs format.
Lockie Ferguson returns home on paternal leave
Head coach Rob Walter was supportive of Ferguson’s leave. He said, “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.”
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The Kiwis will not be replacing Lockie Ferguson, who picked up one wicket last night against the Proteas. Ben Sears and Cole McConchie, who are the travelling reserves for the side, might be added to the squad for the final game against Canada.
The head coach further added, “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.”
Lockie Ferguson has not had the best of World Cup
Lockie Ferguson has picked up four wickets in the competitions so far. He has not been at his very best as he has also leaked runs. He has gone for around 9.67 economy, so the Kiwis death bowling and bowling in the middle overs have been a concern for them. They would look to bounce back after the loss.
New Zealand will be up against Canada in their final game on Tuesday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. The Kiwis in the last game against the UAE set a record chase after chasing 175 runs. This became the highest run chase without losing a wicket in a T20 World Cup match.
New Zealand batters top the chart
The two openers, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen has been in sensational form for the side. The former is currently the leading run scorer of the competition with 167 runs, scoring two fifties, and has an average of 83.50. On the other hand, Allen is in the top 10 list, scoring 116 runs and an average of 58.00, scoring one fifty.
Kiwis will be looking to finish big in their final game on Tuesday. They were knocked out in the group stage in the previous edition of the competition. The Black Caps have been a strong squad and will look for a place in the last four of the competition.
The bowlers have not been tested until the Proteas challenge; the team’s bowling unit needs to step up big in the upcoming games, as they will be needed to perform against stronger opponents in the Super 8s and semi-finals.