World Cup 2023: Kyle Jamieson joins New Zealand squad in place of Matt Henry

BENGALURU: Matt Henry, one of New Zealand's right-arm fast bowlers, will not be able to participate in the ICC Cricket World Cup in India any longer due to a torn hamstring in his right leg.

According to statements from the International Cricket Council (ICC) and New Zealand Cricket (NZC), he will be replaced by Kyle Jamieson in the New Zealand squad.

NZC confirmed that Henry suffered the injury during Wednesday's match against South Africa in Pune. An MRI scan revealed that he has a grade two lower tear, which will require two to four weeks to recover from.

"Jamieson, who has played 13 ODIs for the Blackcaps, was approved by the Event Technical Committee after Henry was ruled out due to a right hamstring injury sustained during Wednesday's loss to South Africa in Pune," the ICC said.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead in Bengaluru said the whole team was thinking of Henry, saying “We’re gutted for him."

He continued: “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."

The NZC statement added that Jamieson arrived in Bengaluru late on Thursday and was expected to train with the team on Friday.

Additionally, Stead said Jamieson is ready to go for Saturday’s game against Pakistan if required.

“We’re fortunate to have a player of the class of Kyle waiting in the wings,” he 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," he added.