The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 reached fever pitch India and Sri Lankahowever New Zealand The camp faces bittersweet moments as it prepares for the final match in Group D. Loki Fergusonthe Black Caps’ best pace merchant, known for his high-octane batting and daring yorkers, is all set to drop the game ahead. Canada. While his absence leaves a significant void in the bowling attack, the reason for his departure is a cause for celebration within the cricketing fraternity.
Why is Lockie Ferguson set to miss New Zealand’s upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 match?
New Zealand’s star pedagogue Ferguson is set to return home on February 15 for the group stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Ferguson will return home to be with his wife Emma and welcomed their first child. The news was confirmed by New Zealand Cricket (NZC) on Sunday, who said the fast bowler has been granted parental leave to witness this important life stage.
An exciting time for the Ferguson whānau 🖤
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— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) February 15, 2026
Head coach Rob Walter addressing the press, the team fully supports Ferguson’s decision. “It’s an incredibly exciting time for Lockie and Emma and we’re delighted he’ll be home for such a special occasion.“, Walter noted. Despite the tournament’s high stakes, the Black Caps have long had a family-oriented culture, and this case is no different.
Although Ferguson will miss the match against Canada in Chennai, the team chose not to name the injured player. The plan is for the speedster to join the squad in time for the Super Eights, provided New Zealand can progress. In the meantime, the team will be looking at travel resources Ben Sears and Cole McConchieor potentially bring about Kyle Jamieson to the playing XI to maintain the intensity of the pace battery.
New Zealand’s rollercoaster ride in Group D of T20 World Cup 2026
The Black Hats’ 2026 campaign has been a story of clinical precision followed by an instant reality check. New Zealand, who are currently second in Group D with four points from three matches, have started with dominating displays. They started with a comprehensive victory over him Afghanistan In Chennai, the bowlers made the most of the conditions and followed that up with a professional win against their opponents United Arab Emirates (UAE).
However, their momentum took a speed bump on February 14 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Facing a formidable South African side, the Kiwis posted a competitive total of 175/7 thanks to a 74-run stand between them. Mark Chapman (48) and Daryl Mitchell (32). Unfortunately, South Africa’s Aiden Markram played the captain’s knock, hitting an unbeaten 86 off 17 balls to chase down the target.
This seven-wicket loss to the Proteas made the upcoming match against Canada a must-win for the Black Caps to ensure they didn’t rely on net run-rate math. Ferguson’s departure comes at a time when his pace is at its peak, having already claimed four wickets in the tournament, but the Kiwis remain favorites to get past Canada and reach the Super Eight.
