Perth: New Zealand Cricket has confirmed that fast bowler Lockie Ferguson suffered a calf muscle injury and he won't bowl again in the first Test against Australia.
Having bowled just 11 overs (0-47), Ferguson left the field during Thursday's first day at the Optus Stadium and was sent for an MRI scan on his right leg.
New Zealand team management on Friday afternoon (local time) confirmed that their Test debutante would not be available for bowling, but he will still be able to bat.
Notwithstanding, it is a major blow to New Zealand, with Tim Southee, Neil Wagner and Colin de Grandhomme having to shoulder the extra seam bowling duties, as Australia enter day two at 248-4.
The Black Caps were already without Trent Boult for the first Test, with the left-arm pacer is yet to recover from his muscle injury around his ribs sustained in the home series against England.
Boult's absence had opened the door for Ferguson to make his debut in the longest format of the game, but it won't be one for him to remember fondly.
