NEW DELHI: New Zealand pacer Matt Henry faces uncertainty for the Champions Trophy final against India due to a shoulder injury, but head coach Gary Stead remains optimistic about his recovery before Sunday’s showdown.
Henry, the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 10 scalps, including a stellar 5/42 against India in the group stage, injured his shoulder while fielding during the semifinal against South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday.
“Matt landed awkwardly on his shoulder, and it was quite uncomfortable for him. The positive takeaway is that he returned to bowl. We’ve had scans done,” Stead said on Friday.
Despite the setback, the coach is hopeful about Henry’s availability.
“We’ll give him every chance to play in the final. It’s still uncertain at this stage, but he’s sore from the impact. Hopefully, he’ll be okay,” Stead added.
New Zealand, who suffered only one defeat in the tournament—against India—will be eager for Henry’s presence, especially given his standout performance in that game, where he registered the best bowling figures of the tournament so far.
