New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is set to miss the rest of this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) after suffering a serious leg injury, according to his team, Punjab Kings.
Ferguson was injured during Punjab’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday. The 33-year-old bowler limped off the field holding his left thigh after delivering just two balls. The incident happened in Mullanpur, where Punjab faced a tough defeat.
Speaking late Monday, Punjab Kings’ fast bowling coach James Hopes shared the news. “Ferguson is out indefinitely, and the chances of him returning by the end of the tournament are very slim,” Hopes said. “I think he has sustained a pretty serious injury.”
Recurring Injury Issues for Ferguson
This injury is a tough blow for Ferguson, who has been struggling with fitness in recent months. He had only just returned from a hamstring injury that kept him out of action during the Champions Trophy held in February and March this year.
Before his latest setback, Ferguson had played four IPL matches this season, taking five wickets for the Punjab Kings.
Punjab Kings’ Current Standings and Upcoming Matches
Punjab Kings have had a mixed IPL 2025 season so far. Out of five games, they have won three and lost two. The team’s next match is scheduled against Kolkata Knight Riders later Tuesday, at their home ground in Mullanpur.
Ferguson’s absence could leave a gap in the team’s pace attack. The management will now rely on other bowlers to step up and fill the void.
Expert Opinions on Ferguson’s Absence
Cricket experts believe Ferguson’s injury will hurt Punjab’s chances in the upcoming matches. Former New Zealand cricketer Scott Styris commented, “Lockie brings speed and experience to any team. Losing him in the middle of a tournament is never easy.”
Punjab’s bowling coach James Hopes added, “Injuries are part of the game, but it’s always hard when a key player goes down, especially one like Lockie who can change the game in a couple of overs.”
What’s Next for Lockie Ferguson?
Ferguson will undergo further medical tests in the coming days to assess the full extent of his injury. Punjab Kings have not yet named a replacement, but the team may look into options from their bench or bring in a new overseas player, as permitted by IPL rules.
Given his injury history, Ferguson’s fitness will be closely monitored by New Zealand Cricket as well, with several important international series coming up later this year.
A Look at IPL Injury Woes This Season
Ferguson’s injury is not the only setback for teams this IPL season. Several other key players have also faced injuries:
- Kane Williamson (Gujarat Titans) missed the start of the season due to a knee issue.
- Deepak Chahar (Chennai Super Kings) has been in and out with a hamstring problem.
- Jofra Archer (Mumbai Indians) is yet to make his IPL comeback.
This adds to the growing list of fitness concerns during one of the busiest periods in cricket.
