NZ vs SA: Why is Lockie Ferguson not playing today’s 2023 World Cup match?

In a significant development for the New Zealand cricket team, the toss has left fans wondering why Lockie Ferguson, who has been an essential part of the pace attack, is not playing in today’s ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 match against South Africa.

NZ vs SA: Why is Lockie Ferguson not playing today’s 2023 World Cup match?

As experienced fast bowler Tim Southee is set to make his return to the playing XI. While Southee’s comeback is undoubtedly great news for the Kiwis, it meant Lockie Ferguson’s exclusion.

The return of Tim Southee to the playing XI has led to Lockie Ferguson making way for the seasoned fast bowler. Southee’s inclusion not only adds experience but also strengthens the team’s pace department. It provides New Zealand with a perfect blend of youth and experience in the fast bowling unit.

Lockie Ferguson, a prominent fast bowler from New Zealand, has earned a reputation for his electrifying pace and the ability to deliver crucial breakthroughs for the team. Born on June 13, 1991, in Rotorua, New Zealand, Ferguson has become a vital asset for the Kiwi side in both ODIs and T20Is.

Known for consistently clocking speeds above 150 km/h (93 mph) and generating steep bounce, Ferguson’s express pace has troubled many top-order batsmen around the world. His ability to strike with the new ball and break partnerships in the middle overs has been a significant strength for New Zealand.

Lockie Ferguson’s absence from today’s match is a strategic move by the New Zealand team to manage their fast bowlers’ workload efficiently. It is a long tournament, and ensuring that their pace spearheads remain fit and in peak condition is crucial for their World Cup campaign. Fans will eagerly await Ferguson’s return in future matches as the Kiwis aim to secure the coveted title.

New Zealand Playing XI

Devon Conway, Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk & c), Glenn Phillips, James Neesham, Mitchell Santner, Matt Henry, Tim Southee, Trent Boult

South Africa Playing XI

Quinton de Kock (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi