Veteran New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson does not have plans to retire anytime soon despite being absent from international cricket for over a year now. He also expressed his eagerness to play for the Kiwis in both the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2027 ODI World Cup. The 34-year-old's last appearance for New Zealand came against Sri Lanka in November, 2024. He has been active in T20 leagues across the globe and had recently played for the Desert Vipers in International League T20 (ILT20).
Ferguson likely to make long return in T20 WC
Though Ferguson may be nearing the end of his international career, but he is still determined to continue playing until he makes his return to international cricket. He is positive about his fitness and is eager to contribute for the team in whichever way he can. He will be eyeing to make an impact for New Zealand in the 2026 T20 World Cup that will be played in India and Sri Lanka from February 7. He has been picked in the side's 15-member squad for the tournament.
“I love playing for New Zealand, I’m very vocal about that. It’s such a great group – what we’re building now is fantastic. I still feel fit, I still feel like I’m contributing. If there’s ever a day and I’m not contributing to a win, or I don’t think I’m deserving of playing, I’ll put my boots on the wall," Ferguson was quoted as saying to reporters ahead of his travel to India.
“At this stage, I still think I’m one of the best. I’m certainly ready to perform at a World Cup and looking forward to it," he added.
Ferguson's numbers in international cricket
Ferguson has so far played 65 ODIs and 43 T20Is in his career, picking up 99 and 64 wickets respectively. He has achieved success with the Black Caps in the past and has been known as a bowler who clocks speeds of over 140 kmph regularly. He has lived upto that reputation and has bowled several memorable spells in international cricket.
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Meanwhile, after winning the ODI series against India, New Zealand will be looking to replicate that form in the upcoming T20I assignment as well. The two teams will face each other in a five-match T20I series, starting from January 21. Mitchell Santner is set to lead the Kiwis in the upcoming series.
New Zealand squad: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke (first three games), Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Bevon Jacobs, Daryl Mitchell, James Neesham, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Tim Robinson, Ish Sodhi