Lockie Ferguson labels coronavirus fears "a bit over-exaggerated"

The New Zealand seamer tested negative for COVID-19 after complaining of a sore throat following the first one-day international against Australia

• Australia-New Zealand ODI and T20 series postponed
• Ferguson place in isolation

New Zealand quick Lockie Ferguson says his mild cold was blown out of proposition after he tested negative for coronavirus.

The 28-year-old complained of a sore throat after the one-day international against Australia in Sydney and was placed in self-isolation.

By the time Ferguson was given the all-clear the series was called off after the New Zealand government introduced travel restrictions which forced the squad to return home.

Ferguson himself was forced to stay in Australia until the Sunday travel deadline - the squad has departed 24 hours previous - as a precaution but is now back with his family.

"Certainly got a few texts on Saturday but I was quick to announce that it was only a few cold symptoms and happy to be home now," he said upon returning to Auckland.

"Probably a bit over-exaggerated as to how I was. I just sort of had very, very mild cold symptoms and the procedures were as they were and followed by Tommy [Simsek, physio] and the support staff. Completely understandable. So yeah, kinda had a day in the hotel room by myself.

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"I just thought it was normal small cold symptoms. Get quite rundown from time to time playing cricket and travelling a bit. So not too unusual for me. 

"But as I said, Tommy our physio and the doctors followed the procedure as is needed. So yes, been 24 hours in isolation but that's okay. And I'll be honest, I actually felt good the next day I woke up. I was fine."

As well as the one-day series, which Australia had led 1-0 after victory at the SCG, the T20Is scheduled for later this month are also off.

The Black Caps are next due in action in June when they face Scotland, Netherlands and Ireland.

"I think everyone in every industry is probably feeling it a little bit," added Ferguson. "Not just us in sport. Certainly, we want to play cricket but under these circumstances, we are following the directions of people in much higher power than me. 

"Yeah just taking it in my stride but looking forward to playing cricket soon. So I'll get back with the Aces boys tomorrow and see what the plan is going forward."