Massive blow for New Zealand, star pacer ruled out of World Cup 2023

In a significant setback for New Zealand's Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign, fast bowler Matt Henry has been ruled out of the tournament due to a torn right hamstring. Henry sustained the injury during a match against South Africa in Pune, which was confirmed by an MRI scan to be a grade two lower tear, requiring a recovery period of at least two to four weeks.

3 things you need to know 
New Zealand are 4th in the World Cup 2023 points table
Matt Henry suffered the injury during a game against South Africa 
Henry has torn his right hamstring 

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New Zealand's coach, Gary Stead, expressed his disappointment over Henry's absence, acknowledging his crucial role in the team and his consistent presence in the ICC top 10 ODI bowlers' rankings. Henry's skills, experience, and team camaraderie will be missed as New Zealand reach the business end of the tournament. 

“We’re gutted for him,” Stead said. “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.

“He’s consistently been ranked inside the ICC top 10 ODI bowlers for the past few years which is testament to his class and skills. Moreover, Matt’s a great team man and we’re all going to miss his personality and experience.”

To fill the void left by Henry, Kyle Jamieson has been called up to the squad. Jamieson, who had recently recovered from back surgery in February, had been providing training cover for the team earlier in the tournament. The 28-year-old arrived in Bengaluru and was set to join the team's training session on Friday. Coach Stead expressed confidence in Jamieson's abilities, highlighting his threat with the ball and the valuable experience he gained during his training stint with the squad.

“We’re fortunate to have a player of the class of Kyle waiting in the wings,” Stead 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. Kyle’s had to work really hard to return from two separate back injuries and I know he’s really excited about being involved in his first ODI World Cup.”

New Zealand, currently sitting in fourth place on the World Cup ladder, have two league-stage games remaining in the tournament. They are set to face Pakistan on Saturday and Sri Lanka on Thursday, both matches to be held in Bengaluru. The inclusion of Jamieson adds depth and skill to their bowling unit as they strive to continue their World Cup campaign on a positive note.