Black Caps: Lockie Ferguson to miss final T20 World Cup group match ahead of birth of first child

Lockie Ferguson is returning home ahead of the birth of his first child. Photo / AFP

The Black Caps lose star bowler Lockie Ferguson for their final group D World Cup match against Canada on Tuesday after he departed the squad on paternity leave.

The 34-year-old is returning home for the birth of his and wife Emma Ferguson’s first child. His place in the squad will be held as he’s expected to return for the Super Eight phase of the tournament.

The Black Caps were prepared for this situation heading into the tournament, as it was flagged when the squad was announced in January.

Fellow bowler Matt Henry and his wife are also expecting their first child, so there is a chance he could be granted short-term leave at any stage.

Black Caps head coach Rob Walter was supportive of Ferguson’s leave.

“It’s an incredibly exciting time for Lockie and Emma and we’re pleased that he’ll be at home for such a special occasion,” Walter said.

“At this stage, we won’t be replacing Lockie in the squad as the plan would be for him to return for the Super Eight phase of the tournament.

“But our travelling reserves Ben Sears and Cole McConchie are ready to be called into the squad should we need them.”

Ferguson has been in strong form with the ball during the World Cup, taking at least a wicket in all three group games New Zealand has played.

The Black Caps suffered their first loss of the tournament on Sunday morning against South Africa, losing by seven wickets. They had beaten Afghanistan and the United Arab Emirates in their first two matches.

They will secure their place in the Super Eight phase with a win over Canada, a side they have never played in cricket’s shortest format.