New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry has been ruled out of the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023 due to the hamstring strain with Kyle Jamieson confirmed as his replacement.
The 28-year-old Jamieson, who has played 13 ODIs for the Black Caps, was approved by the Event Technical Committee. He will come straight into contention for New Zealand’s crucial match against Pakistan in Bengaluru on Saturday.
“Jamieson, who has played 13 ODIs, was named as a replacement after Henry was ruled out due to a right hamstring injury sustained during Wednesday’s match against South Africa in Pune,” the ICC said in a statement.
Meanwhile, another fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is also under an injury cloud due to an Achilles injury sustained in New Zealand’s previous match at the tournament against Australia.
New Zealand coach Gary Stead said there was no option but to bring in cover for the injured pair.
“We’re gutted for him. 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,” Stead said in Bengaluru.
“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.”
Jamieson, who arrived in Bengaluru late on Thursday and is expected to train with the team on Friday, underwent back surgery in February and has already been with the squad in India as training cover earlier in the tournament.
The 51-year-old Stead said Jamieson was ready to go for the crunch clash against Pakistan on Saturday if required.
“We’re fortunate to have a player of the class of Kyle waiting in the wings. 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,” Stead said.
“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,” he added.
