Black Caps speedster Lockie Ferguson says he's fit and raring to go ahead of his return to the field for the national team after a long layoff recovering from an Achilles injury.
Ferguson has joined the T20 squad for the remaining three games against Pakistan in place of Ben Sears, who impressed in the first two fixtures.
Since returning to domestic cricket after the injury ended his 50-over World Cup in November, Ferguson has found top form with the Auckland Aces in the Super Smash, taking 4-14 in a devastating spell against Northern Brave last week.
Speaking to 1News today ahead of tomorrow's third T20 against Pakistan in Dunedin, Ferguson said it was great to be back with the Black Caps squad.
"It’s nice to play for Auckland and get up to match intensity but at the same time this is where I want to be. Love watching the boys on TV but certainly much prefer to be on the park.
"I'm firing, ready to go and looking forward to it."
The 32-year-old said the injury was frustrating but said it was a good chance to spend more time with family after eight months on the road last year.
Black Caps batting coach Luke Ronchi said it was great to have Ferguson return to the squad, and was pleased to see him put in strong performances in domestic cricket as he returned from injury.
"It's always good to see guys coming back and dominating domestic cricket, and good pace from Locks so that’s nice to see," Ronchi said.
Ferguson will be gunning for one of the limited places available for the World Cup squad, with the Black Caps currently overwhelmed with an abundance of fast bowlers.
He, Sears and Matt Henry are likely fighting for two spots, while the performances in the Super Smash by Doug Bracewell, Nathan Smith and Jacob Duffy mean there's no room for error going forward.
Ronchi said it was a nice problem to have and hoped Ferguson would just be himself when he steps on the park tomorrow.
"I just love seeing Lockie being Lockie. When you see him smiling and being aggressive with what he’s trying to do with ball in hand we know that’s the Lockie Ferguson everyone loves seeing."
Ronchi also confirmed Black Caps captain Kane Williamson would miss the rest of the series after suffering a grade one hamstring strain while batting during the second T20 on Sunday.
It's hoped he will be fit to play in the Test series against South Africa next month.
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