New Zealand are facing an injury setback ahead of the remaining ODI matches against India, with fast bowler Lockie Ferguson ruled out of the later games after fitness and recovery issues. Reporting across outlets says Ferguson will miss the final two ODIs, following concerns tied to his calf injury and related stand-down or recovery protocols.
To manage the depleted pace options, New Zealand also bring in cover and adjust the squad. ESPN Cricinfo and other reports say Kristian Clarke is added as cover, alongside plans for managing Blair Tickner’s availability. ESPN Cricinfo also notes a return for Matt Henry ahead of the fourth ODI.
The outlets frame the story similarly as a squad disruption driven by injuries and protocol compliance, but differ slightly on the details of what triggered each stand-down. Times of India and The Hindu both discuss Tickner’s situation as involving being hit while batting and needing to follow a stand-down protocol, while ESPN Cricinfo adds specific context about Ferguson’s tear and Henry’s clearance.
