CRICKET POLL

Lockie Ferguson's injury is set to keep him out of at least a major part of IPL 2025 landing a big blow to Punjab Kings.

"Ferguson is out indefinitely, and us getting him back by the end of the tournament is a very low percentage. I think he's done a real decent injury to himself," said Punjab Kings' fast bowling coach James Hopes a day ahead of their clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mullanpur.

Ferguson hobbled off the field after bowling just two balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad. While details of the injury weren't specified, the 33-year-old was seen clutching his left thigh as he walked off the field. Ferguson picked up five wickets in four games, including the SRH encounter, for Punjab Kings and has been a key part of their bowling plans operating predominantly in the middle overs.

Punjab Kings have some options in their squad to replace the New Zealander including Australian seamer Xavier Bartlett. Azmatullah Omarzai, the Afghan allrounder, is another option. However, they do have options in their Indian contingent including Vijaykumar Vyshak who made an impact in their first game of the season. Vyshak hasn't featured for PBKS subsequently. Yash Thakur was another option used by PBKS against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Ferguson's latest injury comes as a blow to the pacer who had missed the Champions Trophy for New Zealand after suffering a hamstring injury playing in the ILT20 earlier this year. He had also suffered a calf injury late in 2024 before that. For the Punjab Kings, the injury comes as a blow in the midst of a middling season where they have won three and lost two in five outings.