New Zealand’s fast bowler Matt Henry suffered an injury while fielding during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 semifinal against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Despite the setback, New Zealand emerged victorious, securing their place in the final.
The injury occurred in the 29th over when Henry attempted to take a low catch off Heinrich Klaasen. Unfortunately, he hurt his right shoulder in the process. Although he completed the catch, he was visibly in pain and had to leave the field after being attended to by the team physio. However, Henry showed resilience by returning to bowl two more overs, dismissing Kagiso Rabada in the 45th over.
Santner Provides Update on Henry’s Injury
Matt Henry’s limited participation in the match—bowling just seven overs—has raised concerns for New Zealand ahead of their crucial final against India on March 9. Skipper Mitchell Santner addressed the injury situation in the post-match presentation, stating that Henry was experiencing discomfort in his shoulder.
He emphasized that the team management would assess the extent of the injury over the next couple of days before making a final decision. “Have to wait and see how Matt Henry’s shoulder is. It’s a bit sore, we have to wait for a couple of days and see,” Santner said, hinting at the uncertainty surrounding Henry’s availability for the final.
New Zealand’s Dominant Win Over South Africa
Despite Henry’s injury, New Zealand put up a strong performance to defeat South Africa by 50 runs. South Africa’s David Miller fought hard with a valiant century, scoring 100 runs, but lacked support from his teammates, leading to his team’s downfall. Santner praised his side for their disciplined bowling, particularly in the middle overs, which helped restrict the opposition.
He also highlighted Michael Bracewell’s impressive four-wicket haul in the previous game and his own three-wicket performance in the semifinal. “We took wickets in the middle overs and made it tough for the opposition. What we speak as a group is to apply pressure and take wickets in the middle.
It makes my job easier, we have four all-rounders who can bowl spin and they can bat as well. Rachin’s five overs were great,” Santner added. With their victory over South Africa, New Zealand now shifts focus to their final showdown against India, hoping for a full-strength squad, including a fit Matt Henry.
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