Pacers are going to play a big role: Ferguson

Lockie Ferguson expects pacers to play a key role in the limited overs contests during India’s upcoming tour of New Zealand. The Men in Blue will play the Black Caps in five T20 Internationals starting October 22, followed by as many ODIs.

“I like to think that they (fast bowlers) are going to play a big part in the series. In New Zealand, this time of year, it’s a bit cooler at night, and I’m not sure how the ball will perform off the wicket, whether there’s dew, the wicket’s a bit soft, or we get some swing. So it’s always nice to see bowlers showing their skills off with the white ball,” said Ferguson during a media interaction on Friday.

On New Zealand picking a pace-heavy squad, Ferguson said the team has the benefit of good all-rounders, which lets it play an extra quick.

“We’re blessed that we’ve got pretty fantastic spin bowling all-rounders, which allow us to play more fast bowlers. So it depends, sort of year to year, on your squad balance and the players available. But look, if I took a seat in the stands and watched the New Zealand’s fast-bowling depth we have at the moment, it’s pretty exciting. And you get that extra balance. And if you bowl hard into the wicket, you can get rewards,” said the 35-year-old.

On the buzz surrounding Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ferguson felt that it will be a good challenge for the youngster.

“He’s obviously a great talent. We’ve spoken about him a lot. He’s fairly got a lot of praise because of how well he’s done. He’s a young lad, and he’s got a long career ahead of him. It’s exciting to see young stars coming through as teenagers and doing well on the world stage. From the New Zealand public’s point of view, I imagine they’re excited to see that talent live in person.”

“I’m sure he’ll face some challenges, but it’s going to be an exciting series,” added Ferguson.

(Watch India’s tour of New Zealand, starting October 22nd, live and exclusive on Sony Sports Network and Sony LIV).