New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the ODI series against Sri Lanka with a leg injury, days after taking a hat-trick against the same opposition.
Ferguson went off for treatment straight after becoming the sixth New Zealander to take a T20I hat-trick during his second over in Sunday’s series-levelling win in Dambulla.
Seamer Adam Milne replaces the 33-year-old white-ball specialist and will join the squad in Dambulla ahead of Wednesday’s first ODI of a three-match series.
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“We’re gutted for Lockie [Ferguson],” said New Zealand coach Gary Stead. “He showed in the space of just two overs what an asset he is with the ball and he’s also brought a lot of leadership to this group.”
“He’ll be a big miss heading into an important ODI series for us. We’re hopeful his recovery will be short and he’ll be back out on the field in no time.
“Adam [Milne] is a like-for-like replacement who brings genuine pace and plenty of international experience, so we’re looking forward to welcoming him into the group.”
The second and third ODIs between Sri Lanka and New Zealand will be played in Pallekele on November 17 and 19.
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