Lockie Ferguson stresses adaptability after NZ T20I win

Lockie Ferguson has pointed to adaptability as the key factor behind New Zealand’s quick recovery in the ongoing T20I series, as the hosts rebounded from an early setback with a convincing performance.

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After being dismissed for just 91 in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand responded with a determined batting effort, posting 175 for 6 on a demanding Hamilton pitch before securing a 68-run victory over South Africa in the second T20I.

“I think more than anything, we talk a lot about the Black Caps adapting to conditions. It’s not always as easy as it sounds but certainly when a wicket we expect to play well doesn’t play as well as we think, it’s important to try and work out what a good total on that is. Sometimes you don’t get that right.

“But at the same time, I think (the Hamilton game) was a good example of us adapting very quickly. Probably I thought 175 was an outstanding total on that. Although Dev (Devon Conway, who top-scored with 60) probably not as fluid as he always looks, it was a challenging wicket and he got the runs that we needed and posted a great total,” Ferguson expressed.

Return to action in home conditions

The Hamilton encounter also marked Ferguson’s return to the side after briefly stepping away during his ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign to spend time with family following the birth of his first child. He spoke of his satisfaction at playing again in familiar surroundings and seeing emerging New Zealand players contribute.

“I really miss playing in New Zealand. It was unfortunate the start of the summer with an injury. I was really looking forward to quite a lot of T20 cricket at home. I love playing in New Zealand in front of the home crowd, conditions I’m used to,” Ferguson said.

“So, yeah, stoked to get a game in last night. The bowling group as a collective were great. So they made my job a bit easier, the pressure from both ends.”

Pace unit impact and Sears’ progress

Ferguson also reflected on sharing the bowling duties with an energetic pace attack, highlighting Ben Sears’ impressive spell in which he claimed three wickets.

“Yeah, he (Sears) has still got more pace in him, I think. But look, he’s bowling well. It’s good to see him get some consistent training time with us overseas. He was working on his game every training session.

“I saw him running in hard and working on different change-ups, different lines, asking the right questions. And it’s that development that we’ve seen in the last few years, which will stand him well in the next few years and as long as his career goes.

“But a pleasure for me to watch from the side on, seeing him get extra bounce, scaring some of the batters certainly. And I’m looking forward to seeing how he goes at Eden Park in the third T20I too.”

Focus shifts to Eden Park decider

With the series now evenly poised at 1-1, attention turns to the third match at Eden Park, a venue known for its short straight boundaries and vibrant atmosphere. Ferguson acknowledged the unique challenge the Auckland ground presents.

“Yeah, it can be daunting playing at Eden Park for sure,” Ferguson said.

“It’s obviously a shorter boundary, straight. The crowd feels like they’re right on your back. But the thing we get at Auckland is we get a great crowd supporting us. And we always have amazing games of cricket there. So I certainly love playing there,” he added.