Image Credit- AFP
Fast to New Zealand Due to a hamstring issue he
sustained against South Africa, Matt Henry is ruled out of the ODI World Cup.
Kyle Jamieson has been confirmed as Matt Henry’s replacement.
Jamieson had already been called up to join the New
Zealand squad in India after their injury list expanded during the game in
Pune. Jamieson had been a travelling reserve earlier in the competition before
returning home. He will be immediately considered for Saturday’s match in
Bengaluru against Pakistan.
“We’re fortunate to have a player of the class of
Kyle waiting in the wings,” head coach Gary Stead 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.”
Henry’s injury came on top of those of Lockie Ferguson
(Achilles), James Neesham (wrist), Mark Chapman (calf), and Kane Williamson
(thumb), leaving New Zealand with just 11 fit players midway through their
match against South Africa.
In seven games, Henry has claimed 11 wickets at a cost
of 28.63 and an economy rate of 5.63. Before receiving harsher treatment in
subsequent encounters, he began the tournament with back-to-back three-wicket
hauls against England and the Netherlands.
“We’re gutted for him,” Stead said.
“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.”