ODI World Cup 2023: Ex-RCB Pacer Called Upon as Stand-In for Injured Matt Henry in New Zealand Squad

In light of Matt Henry’s hamstring injury sustained in their latest match against South Africa in Pune, the New Zealand team management has added the tall fast bowler, Kyle Jamieson, to their World Cup 2023 roster.

The injury happened in the 27th over of South Africa’s innings, just as Henry was delivering his third ball of the sixth over. He appeared to be in pain and left the field. He has become the fourth injured player in the Kiwi team, alongside Lockie Ferguson, Mark Chapman, and Kane Williamson.

Notably, Matt Henry’s absence would be a big blow for the Black Caps as he has been New Zealand’s second most successful bowler in the showpiece tournament so far after Mitchell Santner.

Meanwhile, Jamieson will arrive in Bengaluru on Thursday ahead of their upcoming game against Pakistan on Saturday. Here’s what coach Gary Stead said:

“The severity of Matt’s injury, combined with a short turnaround to Pakistan, meant we couldn’t risk being a bowler down for Saturday. Matt’s been a world class performer for us in ODI cricket for the past two World Cup cycles so we’ve got our fingers crossed for the scan results later today.”

Stead also revealed that Kyle Jamieson has been training well for a few weeks and was well prepared to return to India.

“Kyle’s on his way over as we speak and we look forward to welcoming him back into the group. He’ll likely train with us on Friday with a mind to being available for Saturday’s game.

“Kyle was able to train for two full weeks with us earlier in the tournament and has since played a Plunket Shield match – so we’re confident he’ll be able to hit the ground running.”

After winning their first four World Cup matches, New Zealand have suffered three defeats in a row and are currently placed at the fourth place in the points table with eight points..