IND vs NZ: Matt Henry To Miss Champions Trophy Final vs India Due to Shoulder Injury

New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry is likely to miss the Champions Trophy 2025 final against India. He suffered a shoulder injury during the semi-final match against South Africa in Lahore.

How Did Henry Get Injured?

Henry got hurt while taking a catch to dismiss Heinrich Klaasen. After that, he left the field for some time. However, he later returned and bowled two overs. He was also seen diving in the field, showing his commitment to the game.

Coach Gives an Update

After the semi-final, New Zealand’s spin bowler Mitchell Santner was hopeful that Henry would recover in time for the final. However, head coach Gary Stead gave a different update. He said Henry’s fitness was still “unknown” just two days before the final.

“We have done scans on him and will give him every chance to play,” Stead said. “But we are still unsure if he will be fit.”

Henry has been New Zealand’s top wicket-taker in this tournament. He has taken 10 wickets at an average of 16.70. He also played a major role in their group match against India, taking five wickets in Dubai, which is also the venue for the final.

Who Can Replace Henry?

If Henry is unable to play, New Zealand has Jacob Duffy as a backup fast bowler. Duffy has not played in the tournament yet but featured in a warm-up match against Pakistan before the event. In that game, he took 1 wicket for 48 runs in seven overs.

New Zealand will hope Henry recovers in time, but if not, they will have to make a tough decision before the big final.