Published: Mar 07, 2025, 04:09 PM (IST)
Edited: Mar 07, 2025, 04:10 PM (IST)
New Zealand seamer Matt Henry is doubtful for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final against India after sustaining a shoulder injury in the semi-final against South Africa. The 33-year-old Henry got the wickets of Ryan Rickelton and Kagiso Rabada to finish with impressive figures 2/43 in 7 overs.
Ahead of the all-important final, New Zealand coach Gary Stead stated that Henry was ‘uncomfortable’ and thus, was later sent for scans.
“Matt obviously landed on his shoulder and it was pretty uncomfortable. I guess the positive thing from our perspective is that he got back out there to bowl. We’ve had some scans done on him,” Stead told the reporters on Friday.
“We’re going to give him every chance to be playing in this match, so still a little bit unknown at this stage. He’s obviously pretty sore just from landing on the point of his shoulder, but yeah, hopefully he will be okay,” Stead added.
This could turn out to be a major blow for New Zealand as Henry is currently the top wicket-taker in the Champions Trophy with 10 wickets under his name. He was also really impressive in the group stage match against India, finishing with figures of 5/42.
If Henry doesn’t play on Sunday, the Kiwis may have to make a choice between Jacob Duffy and Nathan Smith for the summit clash.
