New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson out for up to 6 weeks due to stress fracture

Lockie Ferguson, New Zealand fast bowler will be out of action due to partial stress fracture to his back for between 4 and 6 weeks but does not require surgery, the country's cricket board disclosed on Wednesday.

After the recent T20Is against the West Indies, Lockie Ferguson's injury came to light and the 29-year-old fast bowler has already been ruled out of the forthcoming T20I matches and Test series against Pakistan, which begins on 18th Dec in Auckland.

Gary Stead, New Zealand coach said in a statement that they all really feel for Lockie Ferguson, injuries are definitely part of our sport, but it is extremely disappointing to get anything like this when the player at the very top of their match.

He mentioned that the speed and talent Lockie Ferguson consistently been able to generate has made him one of the world's best white-ball bowlers and a huge asset. Gary Stead added that Lockie Ferguson has a good attitude and he knows he's up for the fight so he's going to get stuck in the rehab and they are still hoping that at the back end of the summer he can get back to the park.

New Zealand will play 3 T20I matches and 2 Test matches against Pakistan, following which it plays against Australia at home In a five-match T20 series beginning in late February.