Matt Henry's participation in Champions Trophy final uncertain post-injury
What's the story
Matt Henry's participation in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy final against India hangs in the balance as he suffered a shoulder injury during the semi-final match against South Africa in Lahore. The New Zealand pacer, who is currently the tournament's leading wicket-taker, hurt his shoulder while dismissing Heinrich Klaasen. Despite his injury, he later bowled two overs and dived while fielding. NZ's skipper Mitchell Santner was optimistic about Henry's soon after the match on Wednesday. Here's more.
Coach's comments
Head coach Gary Stead provides update on Henry's condition
Meanwhile, New Zealand's head coach Gary Stead recently updated Henry's condition, saying that his fitness status is "unknown" a little over 48 hours before the final match. "The positive thing from our perspective is he got back out there to bowl," Stead said as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "We've had some scans and stuff done on him, and we're going to give him every chance to be playing in this match," he added.
Player stats
Henry's performance and potential replacement
Henry has picked 10 wickets at 16.70 in this Champions Trophy, including five wickets in their final group match against India.. If Henry is ruled out, New Zealand may look at right-arm seamer Jacob Duffy as his replacement. Duffy has yet to feature in the tournament but played against Pakistan in a pre-tournament tri-series. Meanwhile, the final clash will be played in Dubai on March 9.
ODI numbers
Henry owns 165 ODI scalps
With his stellar 2/43 in the semifinal against South Africa, Henry raced to 165 ODI scalps. Across 91 ODIs, he boasts an average of 24.81, including an economy rate of 5.18 in 89 innings. According to ESPNcricinfo, he also has bagged 12 four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls. His best ODI figures read 5/30. Notably, this is his maiden Champions Trophy.