Lockie Ferguson to Miss Canada Clash for Birth of First Child

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson will miss his side’s final T20 World Cup 2026 group-stage fixture against Canada on Tuesday after being granted parental leave for the birth of his first child. He is expected to rejoin the squad ahead of the Super Eights stage.

New Zealand head coach Rob Walter confirmed the development, expressing support for the pacer’s decision.

“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 New Zealand’s standout bowler in the competition so far, leading the wicket charts for his team with four wickets in three matches. His absence will leave a gap in the pace attack, though New Zealand have tall seamer Kyle Jamieson available as a replacement option. Jamieson is yet to feature in this year’s tournament.

New Zealand opened their campaign with back-to-back wins before suffering a defeat to South Africa on Saturday. A victory against Canada would guarantee them a place in the Super Eights. However, qualification could still be secured even with a loss, depending on other results in the group.

The Super Eights stage of the T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to begin on February 21, with Ferguson expected to return in time to bolster New Zealand’s bowling attack.