Lockie Ferguson's Fiery Comeback: Pace Ace Eyes T20 World Cup Glory Amid India Series Buzz

New Zealand's express pacer Lockie Ferguson is making waves with his determined comeback from injury, positioning himself as a key player for the upcoming T20 World Cup starting February 7, 2026.

Ferguson, 34, suffered a calf injury during an ILT20 match in the UAE in December 2025, sidelining him from all Black Caps action throughout the year. Despite the setback, he has been bowling at full intensity for the past week and participated in rigorous training sessions in Visakhapatnam ahead of the India-New Zealand T20I series.[1][2]

"Injuries suck, rehab sucks," Ferguson candidly told reporters, but his relentless efforts have him "raring to go" for the World Cup. He impressed selectors in optional training, proving his fitness through match simulations as noted by coach Jacob Oram.[2]

The five-match T20I series against India, kicking off soon, serves as ideal preparation for the global event. "India are one of the top teams in the world, and in their own conditions are world-class," Ferguson said, emphasizing the challenge.[1]

Not named in the latest New Zealand squad, Ferguson remains optimistic about involvement. He is part of Punjab Kings' roster for IPL 2026 and plans a brief paternity break during the World Cup around February 20 for his child's birth.[1]

Dismissing retirement rumors despite opting out of a central contract, Ferguson affirmed his passion: "I still feel fit, I still feel like I'm contributing... I'm one of the best, certainly ready to perform at a World Cup." He also expressed love for 50-over cricket, with his last ODI in the 2023 World Cup semifinal against India.[1][3]

In a cricket landscape demanding workload management, Ferguson embraces a "pick and choose" approach, crediting supportive staff. "A challenging 2025 for sure. But I still want to get better," he said, thrilled to return to the Black Caps and India.[2]

As the T20 World Cup nears, Ferguson's raw pace continues to captivate, with fans in India eagerly watching his bid to reclaim the international stage.[4]