Injury concerns threaten to end Lockie Ferguson’s IPL season.
Lockie Ferguson has suffered a serious injury, casting doubt over his availability for the remainder of the IPL. The New Zealand pacer, who plays for Punjab Kings, is now unlikely to feature again this season, according to the team’s bowling coach James Hopes.
Ferguson picked up the injury while bowling against Sunrisers Hyderabad last Saturday. He managed to bowl just two deliveries before walking off the field.
While no official update has been provided on the nature of the injury, the 33-year-old was seen clutching his left thigh as he left the field, suggesting a possible muscle strain.
So far this IPL season, Ferguson has played in four matches and taken five wickets. On Monday, ahead of their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders, Hopes shared a worrying update:
“Ferguson is out indefinitely. It’s very unlikely we’ll get him back before the end of the tournament. I believe he’s suffered a significant injury.”
Losing Ferguson is a major setback for Punjab. In his absence, the team may look to bring in Australian pacer Xavier Bartlett. They also have Afghan pace-bowling allrounder Azmatullah Omarzai in their squad.
Injuries have troubled Ferguson frequently in recent times. A hamstring issue during the ILT20 ruled him out of the Champions Trophy, and earlier in 2024, he also suffered a muscle injury.
Currently, Punjab Kings sit sixth on the IPL points table with three wins from five matches.
