AUS vs NZ | Trent Boult expected to replace Lockie Ferguson in Boxing Day Test, states Kane Williamson

12/16/2019

Kane Williamson has shared that ace paceman Trent Boult is likely to be fully fit ahead of the Boxing Day Test, hence replacing the injured Lockie Ferguson. New Zealand suffered a 296-run defeat against Australia in the recently concluded first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth.

With Ferguson, who received his first Test cap on December 12, has been ruled out of the remainder of New Zealand's Test series against Australia due to a calf injury he incurred on his debut. He could only bowl 11 wicketless overs before the injury ruled him out of the first Test.

It has been confirmed, by the official twitter handle of the Black Caps, that the 28-year-old will miss the Boxing Day Test and also the third and final Test at Sydney, starting on January 3, as four to six weeks has been predicted for his recovery.

“Lockie Ferguson is returning home from Australia after sustaining a grade two right calf-muscle tendon strain while bowling in the 1st Test in Perth. The injury is expected to need four to six weeks rehabilitation. A replacement player will be named in the next 24 hours,” the tweet said.

Meanwhile, captain Williamson is confident of Boult to be fully fit for the second Test. The pacer had missed the second home Test against England and the recently concluded Perth Test due to a side strain.

"His fitness is looking likely. He was a close one for this so, hopefully, he will be fully fit for the next match," said Williamson.