New Zealand pace spearhead Lockie Ferguson has left the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to return home on parental leave, stepping away from the squad for the birth of his first child.
The 32-year-old quick will miss the Black Caps’ final Group D clash but could still rejoin the campaign later if New Zealand progress to the Super 8 stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Head coach Rob Walter threw his full support behind the decision, confirming the team will not immediately name a replacement and hopes Ferguson can return for the knockout phase.
The Black Caps, who recently fell to South Africa after opening their tournament with a win over Afghanistan, now face a crucial encounter against Canada in Chennai on Tuesday (17) with qualification still on the line.
Travelling reserves Ben Sears and Cole McConchie remain on standby, but for now New Zealand will push forward short of one of their fastest weapons as Ferguson trades pace for parenthood on cricket’s biggest stage.
