DUBAI: Following his recovery from a hamstring injury that sidelined him during the Cricket World Cup 2023, fast bowler Matt Henry is making a comeback to domestic cricket this Friday.
He’s set to join the 13-player New Zealand squad for the upcoming five-match series against Pakistan starting on 12 January.
The return also includes skipper Kane Williamson and batter Devon Conway, both rested during the Bangladesh leg of the home summer. However, Williamson will sit out the third T20I due to a persisting knee issue, prompting the inclusion of Josh Clarkson as cover and Mitchell Santner taking on the captain’s role.
Rachin Ravindra won’t be part of this series, but Lockie Ferguson is expected to join the squad towards the end. New Zealand coach Gary Stead has stressed the significance of the Pakistan series as preparation for the looming T20 World Cup.
“With just three T20I series left before the T20 World Cup, all matches are vitally important for our preparation.
“Starting the series off at Eden Park (Auckland) on a Friday night will be a great occasion and one I know the team will relish.”
In preparation for the opening two matches, Ben Sears has been included in the squad, replacing Ferguson. Kyle Jamieson and Michael Bracewell will be absent due to hamstring and achilles injuries, respectively. Furthermore, Trent Boult and Jimmy Neesham were not available for selection. The New Zealand T20I squad for the Pakistan series will convene in Auckland on January 9th.
The squad comprises Kane Williamson (captain for matches 1, 2, 4, and 5), Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Josh Clarkson (for match 3 only), Devon Conway (wicketkeeper), Lockie Ferguson (for matches 3, 4, and 5), Matt Henry, Adam Milne, Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Mitchell Santner, Ben Sears (for matches 1 and 2), Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Ish Sodhi, and Tim Southee.
1st T20I – January 12, Eden Park, Auckland
2nd T20I – January 14, Seddon Park, Hamilton
3rd T20I – January 17, University Oval, Dunedin
4th T20I – January 19, Hagley Oval, Christchurch
5th T20I – January 21, Hagley Oval, Christchurch
