Lockie Ferguson ruled out of the first ODI against Sri Lanka due to injury

Lockie Ferguson has sustained a hamstring injury and ruled out of the first ODI.

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the first One Day International (ODI) against Sri Lanka which is scheduled to be played on 25th March. The decision to rest Ferguson comes as a precautionary measure as he continues his recovery from a persistent hamstring injury.

Ferguson, who is known for his express pace and ability to generate bounce on any surface, has been an integral part of the New Zealand bowling attack in recent times. His absence will be a big blow to the Kiwis, especially as they look to build momentum ahead of the ODI World Cup later this year.

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While Ferguson’s replacement is yet to be announced, it is likely that one of the other fast bowlers in the squad will be given an opportunity to fill the void. New Zealand has a talented pool of fast bowlers to choose from, including the likes of Tim Southee, Trent Boult, and Kyle Jamieson, who have all been in fine form in recent times.

Despite Ferguson’s absence, New Zealand will be confident of putting up a strong performance against Sri Lanka in the first ODI. The Kiwis will be looking to use the series against Sri Lanka to fine-tune their preparations for the ODI World Cup.