champions trophy 2025 upcoming matches | Lockie Ferguson Ruled Out of Champions Trophy 2025, Kyle Jamieson Named Replacement

Upcoming Match: NZ vs PAK Opener in Karachi

NZ will begin their Champions Trophy campaign with a high-octane clash against hosts Pakistan in Karachi. With both teams eager to start strong, it promises to be a thrilling contest under the lights.

Match Details:
NZ vs PAK – Opening Match, Champions Trophy 2025
Date: February 19, 2025
Venue: Karachi
Time: 10:00 PM (NZT)

Lockie Ferguson Ruled Out of Champions Trophy 2025, Kyle Jamieson Named Replacement

New Zealand’s Champions Trophy 2025 campaign has suffered a major setback as their star pacer Lockie Ferguson has been ruled out of the tournament due to a foot injury. The BLACKCAPS were banking on Ferguson’s pace and experience, but an injury sustained during a warm-up match against Afghanistan in Karachi has ruled him out of the marquee event.

In his absence, the ICC Event Technical Committee has approved Kyle Jamieson as Ferguson’s replacement in the NZ squad for the tournament. The 30-year-old pacer, who recently made his return to competitive cricket, will fly out to Pakistan immediately.

Tough Call for Ferguson, Big Opportunity for Jamieson

Ferguson’s injury occurred while bowling in an unofficial practice game against Afghanistan, where he felt discomfort in his right foot. A medical assessment confirmed that he would not be fit in time for the short tournament, prompting NZ management to send him home for rehabilitation.

Expressing disappointment over the development, BLACKCAPS head coach Gary Stead said:

“We’re really disappointed for Lockie. He is a key part of our bowling attack and has been a valuable asset in past ICC tournaments. We know how much he wanted to contribute to the team’s success in the Champions Trophy.”

However, Stead remained optimistic about Jamieson’s inclusion, stating that his pace and bounce would be effective in Pakistan’s conditions.

“Kyle has been impressive since returning from injury. He brings extra height, bounce, and pace qualities that will be crucial for us in the tournament.”

Jamieson’s Road to Recovery & Recent Form

Jamieson, who has played 13 ODIs for NZ, spent nearly 10 months on the sidelines recovering from a stress fracture in his back. However, he made a strong comeback in December 2024 during the Dream11 Super Smash, finishing as the joint-second leading wicket-taker in the tournament with 14 scalps, including a brilliant 4/12 performance against Central Stags.

His return continued with Ford Trophy 2025, where he featured in key matches for Canterbury, proving that he is match-fit and ready for a big tournament like the Champions Trophy.

What This Means for NZ’s Bowling Attack

With Ferguson out, NZ will rely heavily on Trent Boult, Matt Henry, and Tim Southee to lead the pace attack, while Jamieson’s ability to generate bounce will provide an X-factor in conditions that could favor fast bowlers.

With just a day to go before NZ takes on PAK in the opening match, the BLACKCAPS will hope Jamieson quickly settles into the squad and delivers when called upon.