New Zealand pacer Matt Henry has been officially ruled out of the remaining matches of the ongoing T20I series against Pakistan. This decision comes as Henry continues his rehabilitation from a shoulder injury sustained during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against South Africa. His absence is a significant blow to the Black Caps as they aim to secure victory in the five-match series.

Injury details and rehabilitation

Henry injured his right shoulder while attempting a catch during the Champions Trophy semifinal. Despite the injury, he managed to bowl two overs later in the match. Additionally, he has been dealing with an ongoing left knee issue, further complicating his recovery process. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) confirmed that Henry will not participate in the final two matches of the series, citing his need to focus on rehabilitation.

Replacement announced for Matt Henry

To compensate for Henry’s absence, Canterbury pacer Zak Foulkes has been picked in the squad for the last two T20Is. Foulkes had originally been called up for the first three matches and will now remain with the team. Meanwhile, Will O’Rourke, who was initially listed for the opening three games, has joined the squad for the final two matches in place of Kyle Jamieson, who is unavailable.

Also WATCH: Haris Rauf plucks a one-handed screamer to dismiss Finn Allen in the 3rd T20I �?NZ vs PAK

Series overview

The five-match T20I series has been highly competitive. New Zealand currently leads 2-1 but suffered a record-breaking defeat in the third match. Pakistan chased down New Zealand’s target of 205 runs in just 16 overs, setting a new world record for the fastest chase of a 200-plus target in T20Is. Hasan Nawaz starred with an explosive maiden century, breaking Babar Azam‘s record for the fastest T20I ton by a Pakistani player. Mark Chapman had earlier contributed 94 runs for New Zealand, helping set up a formidable score that ultimately proved insufficient against Pakistan’s dominant batting performance.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Hasan Nawaz’s record-breaking century guides Pakistan to a dominant win against New Zealand in the 3rd T20

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In a significant blow to New Zealand’s chances in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final, star pacer Matt Henry has been ruled out of the crucial match against India due to a shoulder injury. Henry, who is the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 10 scalps, sustained the injury during New Zealand’s semifinal victory over South Africa on March 5.

The injury occurred when Henry attempted to take a catch in the outfield, hurting his shoulder in the process. Despite returning to the field to bowl a couple of overs, Henry was visibly uncomfortable and did not seem fully fit. New Zealand’s coaching staff had initially hoped that he would recover in time for the final, but after a fitness test on the eve of the match, it was confirmed that Henry would not be able to participate.

Mat Henry’s replacement

Henry’s absence is a significant setback for New Zealand, as he has been particularly effective against India in the past. In the group stage encounter between the two teams, Henry claimed a five-wicket haul, showcasing his ability to trouble the Indian batting lineup. His absence will undoubtedly give India a boost, as they look to capitalize on this advantage to secure the title.

In Henry’s place, New Zealand has included Nathan Smith in their playing XI, aiming to bolster their bowling depth and adapt to the conditions in Dubai. Despite this setback, the Black Caps remain hopeful of containing India’s formidable batting lineup.

“We’re going to have a bat first. Looks like a pretty good wicket, similar to the one we played India here a week ago. Want to get runs on the board and see what happens,” said NZ captain Mitchell Santner after winning the toss.

As the final gets underway, all eyes will be on how New Zealand’s reshuffled lineup performs against a strong Indian team.

Also READ: “Please attend the final�?– Fans urge Hardik Pandya’s alleged girlfriend Jasmin Walia to cheer at the IND vs NZ 2025 Champions Trophy match

IND vs NZ, Champions Trophy 2025 final: Playing XI of both teams

New Zealand: Will Young, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham (wk), Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Kyle Jamieson, William O’Rourke

India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Axar Patel, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakravarthy

Also READ: From Mayanti Langer to Swedha Singh Bahal – List of anchors and presenters for IND vs NZ, Champions Trophy 2025 final

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In the third and final match of the three-match ODI series between New Zealand and Sri Lanka, Matt Henry stood out with an exceptional performance. Despite the Blackcaps suffering a 140-run defeat in the last match, they clinched the series 2-1. Henry’s brilliance with the ball was a highlight throughout the series, as he claimed a total of nine wickets, earning him the coveted Player of the Series award. The final match also marked a historic moment for Henry, who became one of the fastest New Zealand bowlers to reach 150 ODI wickets, Henry joined the elite ranks of New Zealand cricket legends.

Top 5 fastest New Zealand bowlers to 150 ODI wickets

5. Tim Southee (110 Matches)

Tim Southee reached the 150-wicket mark in January 2017 during a match against Australia in Auckland. Although Southee managed only one wicket in the game, it was a memorable one, as he dismissed Peter Handscomb after a successful DRS review revealed a nick. Southee’s achievement highlighted his consistency and skill over the years.

4. Sir Richard Hadlee (110 Matches)

In March 1990, legendary all-rounder Sir Richard Hadlee reached the milestone in a match against Australia in Christchurch. Hadlee’s two wickets in the game showcased his mastery of swing bowling, even though New Zealand suffered a 150-run defeat. His contribution to New Zealand cricket remains unparalleled.

Also WATCH: Matt Henry sends Wanindu Hasranga packing with an unplayable yorker in the third ODI | NZ vs SL

3. Kyle Mills (103 Matches)

Kyle Mills achieved the 150-wicket mark in May 2009 during an ODI against India in Colombo. His milestone wicket came when he trapped Dinesh Karthik lbw with a delivery that nipped back sharply. Despite New Zealand losing the match by six wickets, Mills�?achievement underscored his value as a reliable pacer.

2. Matt Henry (85 Matches)

Henry became the second-fastest New Zealand bowler to take 150 ODI wickets on January 11, 2025, during the final match against Sri Lanka. His milestone delivery was a low full toss that Janith Liyanage flicked straight to deep mid-wicket. Henry’s consistent performances in the series and his rapid ascent to 150 wickets underline his exceptional talent.

1. Trent Boult (81 Matches)

The fastest New Zealand bowler to reach 150 ODI wickets is Trent Boult, achieving the feat in June 2019 during the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup against Bangladesh. Boult’s brilliance was on display as he dismissed Mosaddek Hossain and Mehidy Hasan, contributing to New Zealand’s thrilling two-wicket victory. Boult remains one of the finest left-arm pacers in world cricket.

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Clinical Sri Lanka thrash New Zealand in the 3rd ODI to avoid a series whitewash

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The third and final ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka had its own set of thriller defining moments. While Sri Lanka put up a solid display with the bat amidst an onslaught from the Blackcaps bowlers. A special moment in the match came up when Matt Henry pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss Charith Asalanka on a duck.

Matt Henry’s boundary-line heroics stunned Charith Asalanka

New Zealand tightened their grip on the 3rd ODI against Sri Lanka with a brilliant display in the field, highlighted by Michael Bracewell‘s clever bowling and Henry’s athleticism. In the 29th over, Bracewell dismissed Sri Lankan captain Asalanka with a well-executed delivery. Asalanka attempted a lofted shot towards long-off, where Henry completed an outstanding catch.

Running to his right, Henry took the catch near the boundary, flicked the ball into the air as he approached the cushions, and then came back onto the field to complete the catch on the second attempt. It was a crucial wicket as Asalanka fell for a duck after facing five balls, leaving Sri Lanka in trouble.

Here’s the video

🗣�?quot;Matt Henry's taken a ripper!"

Outstanding work on the boundary from the Canterbury quick and the third Sri Lanka wicket falls LIVE and free in NZ on TVNZ DUKE and TVNZ+. #NZvSL #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/7elOufEY6H

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) January 11, 2025

Also WATCH: Nathan Smith plucks a screamer to dismiss Eshan Malinga in NZ vs SL 2nd ODI

Sri Lanka put up a respectable total

Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to bat first. Their decision proved worthy with Pathum Nissanka giving the visitors a flying start, smashing 66 runs off just 42 balls, including six fours and five sixes. However, wickets kept falling for the visitors at regular intervals. Avishka Fernando, struggling for fluency, scored 17 off 33 balls before being caught by Mark Chapman off Nathan Smith. The Sri Lankan innings, which had started brightly, lost momentum as the game progressed.

Kusal Mendis played a vital knock of 54 off 48 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes, but his dismissal by Mitchell Santner derailed Sri Lanka’s progress. Kamindu Mendis tried to stabilize the innings with 46 runs off 71 deliveries, but his slow scoring rate added pressure on the middle order. He eventually fell to Henry, who proved to be the star bowler for New Zealand with four wickets.

Sri Lanka’s middle and lower order showed glimpses of resistance. Janith Liyanage scored a valuable 53 off 52 balls, including three fours and two sixes, but his dismissal came at a critical juncture. With Liyange’s dismissal, Matt Henry completed 150 wickets in ODI format becoming second-fastest bowler from New Zealand to reach this milestone, just behind Trent Boult, who managed it in 81 innings. Henry managed to pull off this remarkable individual achievement in 83 innings for the Blackcaps.

Chamindu Wickramasinghe and Wanindu Hasaranga chipped in with 19 and 15 runs, respectively, before Henry returned to clean them up. Maheesh Theekshana remained unbeaten on the crease at the end of the innings. Sri Lanka made 290/8 in their 50 overs.

New Zealand’s bowlers, led by Henry’s four-wicket haul, played a crucial role in restricting Sri Lanka after a blazing start by the top order. Santner and Bracewell supported him well, picking up two wickets each.

Also WATCH: Maheesh Theekshana lights up Seddon Park with a brilliant hat-trick in the Hamilton ODI

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In the third ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka on January 11, 2025, Kiwi pacer Matt Henry showcased his bowling prowess with an extraordinary delivery that left Sri Lankan all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga stunned. This moment not only highlighted Henry’s skill but also marked a pivotal point in the match as Sri Lanka struggled to set a competitive total.

Matt Henry strikes Wanindu Hasranga with a jaffa

The dismissal of Hasaranga came in the 48th over, a crucial juncture for Sri Lanka as they sought to bolster their innings. Coming in at No. 8, Hasaranga aimed to accelerate the scoring after a steady partnership. However, Henry’s unplayable yorker crashed into the off stump, sending Hasaranga back to the pavilion after he managed to score just 15 runs off 9 balls. The sound of timber echoed through the stadium, eliciting a roar from the crowd as it marked Henry’s third wicket of the day and further diminished Sri Lanka’s hopes of crossing the 300-run mark. Ultimately, they finished with a total of 290/8 in their allotted overs.

Also WATCH: Nathan Smith plucks a screamer to dismiss Eshan Malinga in NZ vs SL 2nd ODI

Here’s the video:

A beauty from Matt Henry to account for Wanindu Hasaranga! Full and straight and Henry has his third. Follow play LIVE in NZ with TVNZ DUKE, TVNZ+, Sport Nation and The ACC. #NZvSL #CricketNation pic.twitter.com/KFGTmtSGa0

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) January 11, 2025

Matt Henry’s historic achievement

Henry’s performance was not just about taking wickets; it was historic. With figures of 4/52, he reached the milestone of 150 ODI wickets, becoming the second-fastest New Zealand bowler to achieve this feat in men’s ODIs. His ability to deliver under pressure was evident as he consistently troubled the Sri Lankan batters with his pace and precision. Alongside him, Mitchell Santner contributed significantly with two wickets, while Nathan Smith and Michael Bracewell each chipped in with one wicket.

Sri Lanka’s struggles with batting depth

Sri Lanka began their innings positively after winning the toss and opting to bat first. Pathum Nissanka looked promising, scoring a brisk half-century off just 31 balls before retiring hurt due to a hamstring issue. However, as wickets fell at regular intervals, the pressure mounted on the lower order. Avishka Fernando struggled for runs and managed only 17 before being dismissed. The Mendis duo, Kusal and Kamindu, attempted to stabilize the innings with an 87-run partnership for the third wicket, but their efforts were not enough to secure a strong finish.

Janith Liyanage’s composed knock of 53 runs provided some stability towards the end of the innings, but lower-order contributions were essential for setting a challenging target. With Hasaranga’s dismissal, Sri Lanka’s tailenders could not capitalize on their earlier momentum.

Dismal New Zealand batting performance in the 3^rd ODI

New Zealand’s batting performance in the third ODI against Sri Lanka was disappointing, culminating in a total of just 150 runs, resulting in a 140-run defeat. This match marked the end of the series, where New Zealand have previously secured a commanding 2-0 lead.

The innings started poorly for New Zealand, losing their first five wickets for a mere 21 runs within the first six overs. Will Young and Rachin Ravindra fell early, contributing just a single run between them. Mark Chapman was the standout performer for New Zealand, scoring 81 runs off 81 balls, including ten fours and one six, but he lacked support from his teammates.

Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, and Glenn Phillips all failed to score, while Bracewell and Santner could only muster 13 and 2 runs, respectively. Smith added 17 runs before being dismissed, and despite a brief cameo from Henry with 12 runs off six balls, New Zealand were bowled out in just 29.4 overs.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers were relentless, with Maheesh Theekshana claiming three wickets and Asitha Fernando also making significant contributions. This result not only handed Sri Lanka a much-needed victory but also highlighted New Zealand’s batting vulnerabilities as they prepare for future challenges.

Also READ: WATCH: Maheesh Theekshana lights up Seddon Park with a brilliant hat-trick in the Hamilton ODI

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The first ODI between New Zealand and Sri Lanka in the ongoing Sri Lanka tour of New Zealand 2024-25 turned out to be a one-sided affair, with the hosts cruising to a comprehensive nine-wicket victory at Basin Reserve.

Black Caps pacer Matt Henry wreaks havoc 

Sri Lanka’s batting lineup struggled to cope with New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack after being asked to bat first. The top order faltered early as Pathum Nissanka (9 off 18) and Kusal Mendis (2 off 8) failed to make any significant impact. Kamindu Mendis (3 off 9) and Charith Asalanka (0 off 5) compounded the woes, leaving the visitors reeling at 27/4 within the first ten overs.

However, Avishka Fernando stood tall amid the early chaos, scoring a fighting 56 off 63 balls, laced with six fours and a six. He found some support from Janith Liyanage (36 off 54) and Chamindu Wickramasinghe (22 off 42) in the middle overs. Wanindu Hasaranga provided a late flourish with an entertaining 35 off 33 balls, including four fours and a six.

Despite these efforts, the Sri Lankan innings lacked momentum and partnerships. Matt Henry was the standout bowler for New Zealand, registering sensational figures of 4/19 in his 10 overs. Jacob Duffy and Nathan Smith chipped in with two wickets each, while skipper Mitchell Santner also got one wicket.

Sri Lanka were eventually bowled out for 178 in 43.4 overs, leaving their bowlers with a challenging task to defend a below-par total.

Will Young smashes unbeaten half-century for NZ

Chasing a modest target of 179, New Zealand’s top order made the task look effortless. Will Young anchored the innings with a sublime knock, remaining unbeaten on 90 off 86 balls. His innings was decorated with 12 crisp boundaries as he dictated terms to the Sri Lankan bowlers.

Rachin Ravindra gave New Zealand a flying start with a brisk 45 off 36 balls, smashing six fours and a six. The duo of Young and Ravindra added 93 runs for the opening wicket, effectively taking the game away from Sri Lanka. Ravindra eventually fell to Chamindu Wickramasinghe, but Mark Chapman (29 not out off 36) ensured there were no further hiccups.

The Sri Lankan bowlers failed to make any meaningful impact on a flat surface. Wickramasinghe was the only bowler to pick up a wicket, while Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Eshan Malinga and Wanindu Hasaranga went wicketless and leaked runs.

Also READ: Fans go wild as Australia demolishes India in Sydney Test to clinch a memorable 3-1 series victory | Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

New Zealand chased down the target comfortably in 26.2 overs, finishing at 180/1 and sealing a dominant nine-wicket victory.

New Zealand beat Sri Lanka by 9 wickets

Scorecard: http://t.co/mOCONiiUTt#NZvSL #ODI #cricket pic.twitter.com/ps0tp7xwPe

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 5, 2025

Player of the Match

Matt Henry’s clinical performance with the ball earned him the Player of the Match award. His lethal spell upfront and in the middle overs dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting lineup, setting the tone for New Zealand’s commanding win.

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Kusal Perera’s brilliant ton seals victory for Sri Lanka in the thrilling final T20I against New Zealand

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New Zealand pacer Matt Henry was the star of the second session on Day 2 of the first Test against India, showcasing remarkable skill and athleticism. His devastating spell left India shattered and ultimately dismissed the hosts for one of their lowest-ever totals in Test history at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Henry’s combination of precise bowling and brilliant fielding played a key role in New Zealand’s dominance, bringing them within touching distance of a historic collapse for India.

Matt Henry’s early breakthroughs spark India’s downfall

Henry was in sensational form from the get-go, setting the stage for India’s collapse immediately after the lunch break. On the very first ball of the second session, Henry struck gold, dismissing the dangerous Ravichandran Ashwin for a golden duck. The delivery, full and swinging in late, proved too good for Ashwin, who had no answer as the ball rattled into his stumps. This breakthrough only heightened Henry’s dominance as he continued to apply relentless pressure.

Soon after, in the 26th over, he removed Rishabh Pant, who had shown some resistance, with a beautiful outswinger that found the edge and was caught behind. Pant’s dismissal for 20 marked the tipping point in India’s innings, and Henry was not done yet. Before Ashwin and Pant, Henry claimed the prized scalp of Ravindra Jadeja and Sarfaraz Khan. His spell of disciplined and attacking fast bowling dismantled India’s middle order, leaving them in complete disarray.

Henry’s sensational running catch to send Jasprit Bumrah back

Henry wasn’t just dominating with the ball; his incredible athleticism in the field was on full display in one of the most memorable moments of the match. As India languished at 40/8, Jasprit Bumrah decided to throw caution to the wind, attempting a wild heave against a short ball from William O’Rourke. The ball soared high into the air, seemingly headed towards safety at deep square leg.

However, Henry, stationed at fine leg to catch a breather, had other plans. With lightning speed, he sprinted across the outfield, covering significant ground to get underneath the ball. Just as it seemed like the chance would evade him, Henry dived full-length and completed a stunning low catch, plucking the ball inches off the ground. The crowd roared in appreciation as Bumrah, caught for just 1, made his way back to the pavilion. Henry’s incredible catch not only showcased his versatility but also highlighted New Zealand’s all-round brilliance on the field.

Here’s the video:

http://twitter.com/kingdom_virat1/status/1846821842188632069

Also READ: Netizens in shock as New Zealand packs India for their lowest-ever total at home on Day 2 of Bengaluru Test

Henry’s five-wicket masterclass ensures India’s collapse

Henry’s day was far from over, as he returned to wrap up India’s innings in style. Having already dismantled India’s top and middle order, Henry secured his well-deserved five-wicket haul by dismissing Kuldeep Yadav with another exquisite piece of bowling. Kuldeep, trying to fend off Henry’s probing lines, was caught behind after edging a delivery that nipped away off the seam. This dismissal marked India’s lowest-ever total at home in Test cricket – just 46 runs, surpassing their previous record of 75 against the West Indies in 1987.

Henry’s final figures of 5/15 from his spell encapsulated a brilliant performance where he not only dominated with the ball but also contributed to the collapse with his fielding. India’s entire innings lasted a mere 31.2 overs, with only two batters, Pant and Yashasvi Jaiswal, managing to reach double digits. By the time New Zealand came out to bat, they were in complete control of the match, finishing the second session comfortably at 78/1, with a 32-run lead in their favour.

Also READ: 5 lowest totals for India in Tests on home soil

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In a sensational display of bowling prowess, Matt Henry emerged as the hero for the New Zealand on Day 2 of the second Test against Australia at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

His stunning spell saw him claim remarkable figures of 7/67, setting a new record for the Black Caps against Australia in their home country. Henry’s extraordinary performance proved instrumental in dismissing the tourists for 256 in response to New Zealand’s 162 on day one.

Marnus Labuschagne’s resilience and destruction by Matt Henry

Despite Henry’s brilliance, Australia managed to post a total of 256, with Marnus Labuschagne being the standout performer with a resilient knock of 90. The Australian batters found it challenging to build substantial partnerships, and the Black Caps, led by Henry who took his second sevenfer in the Hagley Oval , effectively restricted their scoring opportunities. After grabbing three wickets on first day he continued his hunting and turned that into seven wicket haul. In the end Mitchell Starc (28) and Pat Cummins (23) added valuable runs to ensure Australia held a 96 runs lead.

Glenn Phillips’ classic catch: Turning point

Glenn Phillips, underlining his fielding prowess, played a crucial role in dismissing key batter Labuschagne who was cruising towards his century and taking game far away from the host.. His all-time classic catch became a turning point in the match, adding to the challenges faced by the Australian team. Phillips’ exceptional fielding effort showcased the high standards set by the Black Caps in the field.

Also WATCH: Glenn Phillips grabs ‘catch of the match�?to dismiss Marnus Labuschagne in Christchurch Test

New Zealand’s strong response: Tom Latham and Kane Williamson’s stand

Tom Latham and Kane Williamson led New Zealand’s strong response with the bat, erasing the deficit and steering the team towards a solid position. Latham, unbeaten on 65, displayed resilience and determination, while captain Williamson contributed a valuable 51 runs before being dismissed by Australian skipper Cummins. Their partnership, along with contributions from other batters, allowed New Zealand to build on a 40 runs lead with eight wickets in hand.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

7/67 off 23 overs for Matt Henry. He bowled more than a third of New Zealand's overs. Magnificent effort.#NZvAUS

— CricBlog �?(@cric_blog) March 9, 2024

http://twitter.com/diminutiverowdy/status/1766236044343853185

Special performance from Matt Henry for his 7/67. One of the more remarkable individual feats & everyone at Hagley Oval, including the Aussies have clapped him off #NZvAus pic.twitter.com/j6kxjhsVjD

— Bharat Sundaresan (@beastieboy07) March 9, 2024

A Matt Henry 7 for is what I came for #nzvaus

— Renee (@rencarrot) March 9, 2024

Two 7-fers for Matt Henry at Christchurch 🥶

— َ (@52off89) March 9, 2024

What an outstanding performance from Matt Henry 👏💪#MattHenry #NZvAUS #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/r6UxrrtEKq

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) March 9, 2024

That is quite outstanding for Matt Henry. 7 for 67.

— Sam[uel] Smith (@samuelsmith1988) March 9, 2024

Tom Latham becomes only the second left-handed batter after Stephen Fleming (15289 runs) to score 10,000+ runs for New Zealand across all formats.#NZvAUS

— Rhitankar Bandyopadhyay (@_rhitankar_) March 9, 2024

Matt Sevenry #NZvAUS

— Dan Liebke (@danliebke) March 9, 2024

STUMPS: New Zealand to take a 40-run lead into day three after digging in with the bat #NZvAUS

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) March 9, 2024

A lead of 40 runs at the close of play on Day 2 at Hagley Oval. Tom Latham (65*) and Rachin Ravindra (11*) to resume tomorrow. Head to http://t.co/3YsfR1YBHU or the NZC App for the full scorecard 📲 #NZvAUS pic.twitter.com/Vuz56OHiv0

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) March 9, 2024

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s brain fade moment against New Zealand debutant Ben Sears

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The highly anticipated second Test between New Zealand and Australia commenced at Hagley Oval in Christchurch, delivering an enthralling day of cricket for fans worldwide. As the battle for supremacy unfolded, it was Australia who seized the early advantage, capitalizing on their strong bowling performance to restrict the hosts to a modest first-innings total of 162.

Matt Henry cleans up Cameron Green with a beauty

Matt Henry stood out as New Zealand’s standout bowler, making an immediate impact on the opening day. Bowling 13 overs, the right-armer claimed three wickets while conceding 39 runs, including four maidens.

During his exceptional bowling spell, Henry dismissed notable batsmen such as Usman Khawaja, Cameron Green, and Travis Head. His dismissal of Green, in particular, drew significant attention, as he removed the centurion from the previous Test with a remarkable delivery.

The pivotal moment occurred on the final ball of the 27th over of Australia’s first innings when Henry delivered a slightly fuller delivery that swung back in sharply. Green, caught in his crease, failed to anticipate the movement, resulting in the ball sneaking through the gap between bat and pad to dismantle the stumps. After the dismissal, Henry celebrated in full animation, revealing how excited and pumped up he was to get the prized scalp of Green.

Here is the video:

Matt Henry has taken the wicket of Cameron Green – his second of the day! 🔥@BLACKCAPS v Australia: 2nd Test | LIVE on DUKE and TVNZ+ pic.twitter.com/JYm1B1VbCT

— TVNZ+ (@TVNZ) March 8, 2024

Also READ: Twitter reactions – Josh Hazlewood dismantles New Zealand before Matt Henry’s late strikes blow away Australia’s top order

New Zealand’s batting struggles

Despite a promising start from opener Tom Latham, New Zealand faltered against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack, losing wickets at regular intervals. A collapse ensued after Latham’s dismissal, leaving the hosts reeling at 84/5 before a late resistance from Henry and Tim Southee helped salvage their innings as the hosts managed to finish with 162 on the board.

Australia’s response

In reply, Australia navigated through a testing period with cautious batting, guided by a resilient partnership between Marnus Labuschagne and Green. However, Henry’s heroics with the ball once again disrupted Australia’s momentum. Australia reached 124/4 at stumps of Day 1, trailing New Zealand by 38 runs.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith’s brain fade moment against New Zealand debutant Ben Sears

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.