Cricket

Matt Henry eyes New Zealand comeback as rain-affected ODI series continues

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Nov 11, 2026, 12:10 IST

New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry believes his team could have challenged India in their ODI series if not for rain, as he prepares to return from a concussion for the fourth match.

Matt Henry eyes New Zealand comeback as rain-affected ODI series continues

New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry believes his side could have pushed India to closer finishes in their ongoing ODI series if not for the persistent rain that disrupted the opening matches. Despite trailing 0-2 in the series, Henry remains optimistic about the competitiveness his team displayed while defending modest totals under challenging conditions.

The first two matches of the series were decided by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method due to weather interruptions, while the third ODI was abandoned without a single ball being bowled. With two matches remaining, Henry is eager to help the Black Caps salvage pride and build momentum as they look toward the upcoming home summer.

Henry set for return following concussion

The 34-year-old seamer is expected to return to the playing XI for the fourth ODI after being sidelined for the previous fixture. His absence was the result of a training-ground accident where he sustained a concussion following a collision with teammate Devon Conway during a fielding drill. Henry described the incident as an unfortunate blind-spot collision but confirmed he is making steady progress in his recovery.

Addressing concerns regarding his fitness, Henry also played down a minor quadriceps issue that had previously kept him cautious. He noted that the decision to manage his workload was a proactive measure given the heavy schedule of cricket ahead. The bowler expressed frustration at the timing of the injury but remains focused on the significant volume of matches left in the season.

Workload management ahead of Test series

Looking beyond the white-ball fixtures, Henry is part of the 14-member squad selected for the upcoming two-Test series against India, which is scheduled to begin in Wellington on November 19. With New Zealand set to play 10 Tests between now and March, the fast bowler acknowledged that managing player workloads will be a critical challenge for the team management.

Henry emphasized that while the upcoming Test matches are vital for the World Test Championship, the squad’s primary focus remains on their own execution and performance. He highlighted the importance of clear communication within the team to navigate the demanding schedule, noting that the Black Caps are eager to capitalize on the advantage of playing in home conditions.