Following a significant double injury setback, New Zealand is taking measures to keep their World Cup semi-final hopes alive. Key pacers Matt Henry and Lockie Ferguson have been sidelined due to injuries, necessitating the need for additional cover in the squad.
Injury Woes for Key Pacers
Matt Henry is currently awaiting scan results for a right hamstring injury sustained during the team’s devastating defeat to South Africa. Lockie Ferguson, on the other hand, was absent from the match due to an Achilles injury he picked up against Australia.
Jamieson Joins the Squad
With the team’s crucial match against Pakistan on the horizon, Kyle Jamieson is set to join the New Zealand squad in Bengaluru on Thursday. The 28-year-old had previously been part of the squad as a backup for Tim Southee earlier in the tournament.
Coach’s Take on the Situation
New Zealand’s coach, Gary Stead, expressed that there was no other choice but to bring in additional cover for the injured duo. He highlighted the severity of Matt’s injury and the short time before the Pakistan match as reasons for this decision.
Stead also expressed optimism about Jamieson’s return to India, stating that he is well-prepared and will be considered for immediate inclusion in the New Zealand XI against Pakistan, subject to approval from the Event Technical Committee.
High Hopes for Jamieson
Stead added that Jamieson is already en route and they are looking forward to welcoming him back into the group. He is expected to train with the team on Friday and be available for Saturday’s game. Having trained with the team for two full weeks earlier in the tournament and played a Plunket Shield match, the team is confident in his readiness.
New Zealand’s World Cup Journey So Far
New Zealand started the Cricket World Cup on a high note with four consecutive victories but have since suffered three straight losses. Their semi-final hopes hang in the balance, with the upcoming match against Pakistan being crucial to their progress.
While they have another match against Sri Lanka on 9 November, the team is keen on securing a fifth tournament win sooner to reduce their dependence on other match outcomes.