New Zealand have called up fast bowler Matt Henry as a cover-up for left-arm fast bowler Niel Wagner ahead of the first Test against India starting from February 21 (Friday) in Wellington. Wagner is awaiting the birth of his first child and has not joined the squad as of yet.
Meanwhile, the selectors have initially preferred Kyle Jamieson ahead of Matt Henry following his good run for New Zealand A and subsequently in the limited-overs series against India. The 25-year-old pacer picking up three wickets in the two games he featured. Prior to that, he also picked up six wickets in the three games against India A.
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Henry, who last played in the New Year's Test in Sydney last month where he ended up picking just two wickets in New Zealand's loss will join the squad later today. However, Niel Wagner is expected to join the training on Thursday, a day before the first Test starts. But it is looking extremely unlikely. Should Wagner fail to make it on time, Jamieson is likely to get his maiden Test cap if the management doesn't draft in Matt Henry in the playing XI.
Henry has 30 wickets to his name in 12 Tests; however, has been largely inconsistent. He will be desperate to prove his mettle if an opportunity comes his way. On the other hand, New Zealand will be brimming with confidence following a clean sweep in the ODIs and will hope to take the momentum to red-ball cricket as they aim to stop India's dream run in the ICC World Test Championship.
