New Zealand star pacer Matt Henry has been ruled out of the ODI World Cup 2023 after he suffered a torn right hamstring during their match against South Africa in Pune on Wednesday. He has now been replaced by Kyle Jamieson, the Kiwis announced.
An MRI scan confirmed that he has a grade two lower tear which will require at least two to four weeks to recover from. New Zealand next play Pakistan on Saturday, October 4.
Coach Gary Stead revealed that the whole squad was thinking of Henry. “We’re gutted for him,” Stead told in Bengaluru ahead of the Pakistan clash.
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“Matt’s been a crucial part of our One Day side for a long time and to see him ruled out as we reach the business end of this tournament is immensely disappointing. He’s consistently been ranked inside the ICC top 10 ODI bowlers for the past few years which is testament to his class and skills.
“Moreover, Matt’s a great team man and we’re all going to miss his personality and experience.”
Meanwhile, Jamieson reached Bengaluru on Thursday and is expected to train with the team on Friday.
Jamieson himself has recently recovered from an injury. The 28-year-old underwent back surgery in February and has already been with the squad in India as a training cover earlier in the World Cup 2023.
Stead is of the opinion that Jamieson was ready for the Saturday game against Pakistan. “We’re fortunate to have a player of the class of Kyle waiting in the wings,” he said.
“His skills and physical attributes always make him a threat with the ball and it’s an added bonus he was able to train with us in the first two weeks of the tournament. Kyle’s had to work really hard to return from two separate back injuries and I know he’s really excited about being involved in his first ODI World Cup,” Stead added.
The Kiwis are currently fourth on the World Cup table with two group games remaining against Pakistan on Saturday and Sri Lanka on Thursday, both in Bengaluru.
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