New Zealand face a nervous wait over the fitness of their key fast-bowler Matt Henry ahead of their Champions Trophy 2025 final clash against India. Henry sustained a shoulder injury during the semi-final victory over South Africa, casting a shadow over his participation in the title-decider.
The injury occurred when Henry took a diving catch to dismiss Heinrich Klaasen. Despite the immediate discomfort, he returned to bowl two more overs, demonstrating his commitment. In his seven overs, Henry picked two wickets and gave away 43 runs.
New Zealand head coach Gary Stead acknowledged Henry's discomfort and confirmed that he had undergone scans. While expressing hope for his recovery, Stead admitted that his fitness remains "a little bit unknown" just days before the final.
"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 said as quoted to 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," he added.
Henry has been a vital cog in New Zealand's campaign and is currently the tournament's leading wicket-taker with 10 scalps. In the previous match against India, he bagged a fifer.
If Henry is ruled out, New Zealand might include Jacob Duffy or Nathan Smith in the playing XI. The Black Caps are already inexperienced as far as their bowling department is concerned and Henry's likely unavailability could add to their woes.
New Zealand’s road to final of Champions Trophy 2025
New Zealand started their campaign with a win over Pakistan. They then defeated Bangladesh but lost to India in their last group match.
The Mitchell Santner-led side prevailed over South Africa in the semi-final to confirm their place in the summit clash of the tournament, scheduled against India on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.
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