New Delhi, Jan 20 (NationPress) With the T20 World Cup in India on the horizon, New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has made it clear that he does not plan on retiring after the tournament. He also expressed his eagerness to play for South Africa in next year’s ODI World Cup.

Now at 34 years old, and having missed the 2025 season due to injury, Ferguson finds himself at a pivotal point in his career, reminiscent of Trent Boult, who was the same age when he declared the previous T20 World Cup as his final appearance for New Zealand.

Like many athletes who have shaped the most triumphant era in New Zealand cricket, Ferguson is nearing the end of his international journey, with significantly more matches in his past than in his future.

Known for consistently bowling at speeds exceeding 150km/h, Ferguson remains a crucial and rare asset for his nation. In 43 T20 internationals, he has secured 64 wickets at an outstanding average of 17, although that velocity has taken a considerable physical toll over the decade since his debut.

With less than a month until the Black Caps commence their T20 World Cup campaign against Afghanistan in India, Ferguson is resolute in his choice to keep playing.

"I am passionate about representing New Zealand, and I’m vocal about that. The team we are building is exceptional. I still feel fit, and I believe I’m making a significant contribution. If there comes a day when I feel I’m no longer contributing to winning, I will hang up my boots," Ferguson shared, as reported by The New Zealand Herald.

"At this moment, I still consider myself among the best. I am definitely prepared to perform at a World Cup and I’m looking forward to it," he added.

Ferguson is set to travel to India, where the Kiwis will prepare for the World Cup with a series of five T20 matches against the Men in Blue. He also confirmed that he is on track for the tournament's commencement and has been practicing with a full run in the nets over the past week.

Additionally, Ferguson is setting his sights on next year’s 50-over World Cup in South Africa. Since his debut in 2016, he has participated in 65 matches and taken 99 wickets, playing a crucial role in New Zealand’s 2019 World Cup disappointment.

"I love 50-over cricket. It’s where I made my mark, more so than in T20. It’s thrilling to have a World Cup on the horizon. Right now, it’s very much a tournament-by-tournament situation. I’m enjoying my cricket immensely. Despite a challenging year last year, I have a strong support network, and I’m feeling fit and ready to go," Ferguson affirmed.