New Zealand’s Lockie Ferguson to Miss Canada Match Due to Parental Leave

February 15, 2026: Lockie Ferguson will not play in New Zealand’s last group match against Canada. He will leave for home on February 15 to be with his family.

New Zealand coach Rob Walter said it is a happy time for Ferguson and his wife. He said the team is happy that Ferguson can go home. The coach also said they will not name a new player now. The plan is for Ferguson to come back for the Super 8 stage. Reserve players Ben Sears and Cole McConchie are ready if the team needs them.

New Zealand Lose to South Africa

New Zealand played against South Africa at the Narendra Modi Stadium on February 14. New Zealand batted first and scored 175 runs.

Mark Chapman made 48 runs, and Daryl Mitchell scored 32 runs.

South Africa chased the target without much trouble. Aiden Markram stayed not out on 86 runs from 44 balls. David Miller added 24 not out. South Africa won the match by seven wickets in 17.1 overs.

Lockie Ferguson will miss New Zealand's final group game against Canada, but is expected to be back for the Super Eights pic.twitter.com/OmJzPfk79z

— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) February 15, 2026

Ferguson Leads New Zealand’s Bowling Attack

Lockie Ferguson has taken four wickets in three matches. He is New Zealand’s top wicket-taker in the tournament.

For the Canada match, the team can choose Kyle Jamieson as his replacement. Jamieson has not played any match in this World Cup yet.

New Zealand won their first two games. But they lost to South Africa on Saturday. If they beat Canada, they will move to the Super Eights. They can also qualify if other match results help them, even if they lose.

The Super Eights stage will start on February 21.