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New Zealand In Trouble! Matt Henry Ruled Out Of T20I Series Vs Pakistan

Soumyajit Dutta

Matt Henry [Source: @MufazzalKapadia/X.com]Matt Henry [Source: @MufazzalKapadia/X.com]

New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry has been sidelined for the remainder of the T20I series against Pakistan as he recovers from a shoulder injury sustained during the Champions Trophy 2025 semi-final against South Africa. 

Despite briefly returning to bowl after the incident, Henry missed the final against India and will now focus on rehabilitation. The Blackcaps, leading the five-match series 2-1, face a resurgent Pakistan team that scripted a historic chase of 205 in 16 overs during the third T20I, powered by Hasan Nawaz’s blistering 44-ball century.

Matt Henry’s Injury Prompts Squad Reshuffle

For the unaware, Matt Henry has been battling with injuries since the Champions Trophy and his most recent injury occurred during a catch attempt in the Champions Trophy, after which he bowled two overs before being ruled out. 

“Blackcaps pace-bowler Matt Henry has been ruled out of the remainder of the KFC T20I series against Pakistan as he continues his injury rehabilitation programme.” New Zealand Cricket confirmed his exclusion.

Zak Foulkes remains in the squad for the final two matches, while Will O’Rourke replaces Kyle Jamieson.

“Will O’Rourke, who was originally listed for the opening three games, has instead joined the T20I squad for the final two matches in place of Kyle Jamieson,” NZC added.

Pakistan Keeps Series Alive

Pakistan’s stunning third T20I victory featured Hasan Nawaz’s unbeaten 105 off 45 balls, the fastest T20I century by a Pakistani, eclipsing Babar Azam’s 49-ball record. Skipper Salman Ali Agha’s 31-ball 51 complemented Nawaz’s assault as Pakistan overhauled New Zealand’s 205 in 16 overs, breaking South Africa’s previous record. 

Earlier, Mark Chapman’s 94 propelled the Blackcaps to a competitive total, but it proved insufficient against Pakistan’s fiery response. With the series poised at 2-1, the final matches promise high stakes as New Zealand reshuffles resources and Pakistan rides momentum.