Aaj News

New Zealand face setback with key player out for Champions Trophy final

Black Caps will bat first in final against India
Published 09 Mar, 2025 01:56pm
New Zealand’s Matt Henry reacts after taking a catch to dismiss South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen during the ICC Champions Trophy one-day international semi-final cricket match between New Zealand and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on March 5, 2025. afp
New Zealand’s Matt Henry reacts after taking a catch to dismiss South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen during the ICC Champions Trophy one-day international semi-final cricket match between New Zealand and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on March 5, 2025. afp

New Zealand suffered a big blow on Sunday as key fast bowler Matt Henry was ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy final against India due to an injury.

Henry’s addition to the team was doubtful after he sustained a shoulder injury while making a catch in the outfield during the Black Caps’ semi-final match against South Africa, where they secured a 50-run victory. He has not recovered in time to participate in the crucial tournament finale against India in Dubai.

In the wake of Henry’s injury, New Zealand has named Jacob Duffy as his replacement for the ICC Champions Trophy Final. Duffy, who has yet to play in the tournament, steps into the lineup after Henry was ruled out due to a shoulder injury.

Henry has been a standout performer in the Champions Trophy, leading the tournament with 10 wickets. Duffy will join fellow fast bowlers Kyle Jamieson and Will O’Rourke to strengthen New Zealand’s pace attack as they prepare to face India in the final.

cricket

New Zealand

dubai

Champions Trophy

Matt Henry