India vs New Zealand: Will Matt Henry be available for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final? Check details

New Zealand secured a spot in their first ICC Champions Trophy final since 2009 on Wednesday, defeating South Africa by 50 runs in a thrilling high-scoring encounter at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. The BlackCaps put up a well-rounded performance across all departments, showcasing their strength in both batting and bowling. However, their victory was marred by an unfortunate setback, as pace spearhead Matt Henry sustained a shoulder injury during the match. The injury to Henry is a major blow for the Kiwis ahead of their final showdown against India on Sunday. Henry has been one of New Zealand's key players throughout the tournament, providing crucial breakthroughs with his pace and accuracy.

Matt Henry unavailable for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final?

Matt Henry's absence would leave a significant gap in the BlackCaps' bowling attack, especially against a formidable Indian lineup. With the final fast approaching, the team’s medical staff will be closely monitoring his condition, hoping for a swift recovery. If Henry is unable to recover in time for the final, New Zealand will have to make adjustments to their bowling attack, potentially calling up a replacement or reshuffling their options. Despite the injury setback, the BlackCaps will be determined to give their best performance on Sunday, aiming to clinch their first-ever Champions Trophy title.

Matt Henry suffered a shoulder injury during the 29th over of South Africa’s chase in New Zealand’s semi-final match. The injury occurred when he took a low catch off Heinrich Klaasen while running in from long-on. After landing awkwardly and jamming his right shoulder into the ground, Henry was visibly in pain and was forced to leave the field temporarily. Despite the discomfort, the 33-year-old showed remarkable resilience, returning to bowl two more overs. He made an immediate impact, dismissing Kagiso Rabada to finish with figures of 2/43 in seven overs.

Henry’s performance was crucial in helping New Zealand defend their total and reach the final. His ability to push through the injury and continue contributing was a testament to his professionalism and determination. However, with the final against India just days away, the injury raises concerns about his fitness and availability. New Zealand’s medical team will be closely assessing his condition to determine whether he can take part in the India vs New Zealand final. If Henry is unavailable, the team may have to make adjustments to their bowling attack, which could be a significant blow to their chances in the tournament’s final showdown.

New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner addressed the situation surrounding Matt Henry’s injury, confirming that the pacer was dealing with a sore shoulder. Santner mentioned that the team management would need to wait a couple of days to assess the extent of the injury and determine whether Henry would be available for the final. With New Zealand having a three-day break before the much-anticipated Champions Trophy 2025 final against India in Dubai, the Kiwis have some time to evaluate Henry’s condition.

The team will be closely monitoring Henry's recovery over the next few days, with hopes that the pacer can overcome the injury in time for the crucial match. The Kiwis are hopeful that the 33-year-old’s experience and quality will be available when they take on India for the ultimate prize. However, if Henry’s condition doesn’t improve, the team may need to consider alternatives in their bowling attack. The next few days will be critical for the BlackCaps as they prepare for one of the biggest challenges of the tournament.

“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,” stated New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner during the post-match presentation. 

Matt Henry has been the standout bowler of the Champions Trophy 2025, leading the tournament with 10 wickets in just four matches. His exceptional form has made him a key player for New Zealand, and he has been a major threat to opponents throughout the tournament. In their league-stage encounter against India last Sunday in Dubai, Henry was at his destructive best. He claimed the first five-wicket haul of the tournament, dismissing key Indian batters including Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, and Mohammed Shami. His brilliant spell played a crucial role in restricting India to a modest total of 249/9 in their 50 overs. However, despite Henry's efforts, India managed to come out on top, with Varun Chakravarthy’s remarkable five-wicket haul leading the way in India’s 44-run victory over New Zealand.