New Zealand’s head coach Gary Stead is hopeful that pacer Matt Henry will recover from his shoulder injury in time for the Champions Trophy final against India.
Henry sustained the injury while attempting a catch during New Zealand’s semifinal clash against South Africa on Wednesday. After leaving the field for medical attention, he returned to bowl two more overs. He finished with figures of 2/43 in 7 overs.
Regarding Henry’s availability for the final, Stead said,
“He is still experiencing some discomfort in his shoulder, but the positive sign is that he was able to return and bowl in the semifinal.”
Henry has been in outstanding form, leading the tournament’s wicket-taking charts with 10 wickets in 4 matches. He was particularly impressive against India in the group stage, claiming 5 wickets for 42 runs. His presence in the final would be crucial for New Zealand.
Stead further added,
“We have done scans and are continuing to monitor him closely. We will give him every opportunity to be fit for the final. Right now, his condition is uncertain, but we are hopeful he will recover in time.”
