Last Updated on 7 minutes ago by Charbel Coorey
New Zealand were dealt a double blow ahead of the third and deciding Test against England with Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips ruled out due to injury. Henry missed out due to a calf injury, while Phillips has picked up a side strain.
Both players were instrumental in New Zealand’s outstanding win in the second Test at The Oval. Henry took 11 wickets, moving the ball both ways in a superb exhibition of seam bowling. Earlier in the match, Phillips set things up for the Black Caps, overcoming a Jofra Archer bouncer barrage and scoring an excellent ton – his first in Tests.
New Zealand release statements on Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips injuries
Henry’s absence makes things tougher for New Zealand to get a win on a flat pitch, especially with Kyle Jamieson also unavailable due to load management.
“Matt Henry will miss the third Test against Trent Bridge due to a calf injury,” read a statement on the Black Caps’ official X account.
“Henry felt pain during the second Test at The Oval and subsequent scans on his left calf revealed a low-grade muscle strain. Initial assessment suggests a recovery time of 2-4 weeks.”
New Zealand Cricket also released a statement on Phillips. The all-rounder adds all-round quality to the team and the Black Caps face a tough ask to win without him, too.
“Glenn Phillips will miss the third Test against England at Trent Bridge due a side strain injury,” read New Zealand Cricket’s statement.
“Phillips felt side pain during the second Test at The Oval. Further assessment will determine Phillips’ return-to-play timeline.”
On the field, New Zealand enjoyed a magnificent start to the third Test. Tom Latham (109) and Devon Conway (94) took the Black Caps to 213/0 on day one and a big score is on the horizon.
