Matt Henry in semifinal clash vs India (Source:@Minakshisingh47/X.com)
New Zealand have won an important toss in the final of Champions Trophy 2025 and they have decided to bat first. However, their star bowler, Matt Henry is not playing the game and it is a big blow for the Kiwis. The right-arm pacer has not recovered from the shoulder injury he suffered in the semifinal clash against South Africa and it has ruled him out of the all-important finale.
Nathan Smith Replaces Matt Henry In Final Of Champions Trophy 2025
In place of Matt Henry, Nathan Smith is playing the final for New Zealand the Black Caps fans would be hoping that the seam-bowling all-rounder fills the big shoes in this high-pressure game. However, Henry picked up a fifer against India in the group stage game and has always done well against India, especially in ICC tournaments.
Both these teams went head to head in a group stage game where India outclassed the Kiwis courtesy a six-wicket haul by Varun Chakaravarthy. They were chasing the target in that game though, but in the final they are batting first and it could go in their favour with pitch getting slower in the second half.
Kiwis have played good cricket in this Champions Trophy and have lost only one game. India, on the other hand, have not lost a single game, and would be hoping that they lift their third Champions Trophy title in Dubai, against a team that beat them in the final of 2000 Knockout Cup.
.jpg?type=tq)
.jpg?type=tq "Virat Kohli Injury Update")
 "Aashay Chopade")
