New Zealand has taken a proactive step by adding fast-bowler Kyle Jamieson to their ICC Men's Cricket World Cup squad in India, serving as cover for their pace attack. This move comes as pacer Matt Henry awaits scan results on his right hamstring, and Lockie Ferguson continues his recovery from an Achilles injury.
Kyle Jamieson had previously been with the New Zealand squad in India as a contingency for Tim Southee earlier in the tournament. The New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced that Jamieson will join the team in Bengaluru ahead of their crucial match against the 1992 champions, Pakistan, which is scheduled for Saturday.
Head coach Gary Stead emphasized the importance of not risking a shortage of bowlers, especially with the severity of Matt Henry's injury. Henry sustained a hamstring injury during New Zealand's significant 190-run loss to South Africa in Pune. An MRI scan was planned to assess the extent of the damage to his right hamstring.
Stead stated, "Kyle’s on his way over as we speak, and we look forward to welcoming him back into the group. He’ll likely train with us on Friday with a mind to being available for Saturday’s game. Kyle was able to train for two full weeks with us earlier in the tournament and has since played a Plunket Shield match, so we’re confident he’ll be able to hit the ground running."
In more positive news, Lockie Ferguson, who had previously been sidelined due to an Achilles issue, has returned to fitness and is expected to be available for the match against Pakistan. The scan on his right Achilles revealed no significant damage.
New Zealand's campaign in the Men's ODI World Cup started strong with four victories. However, they faced three consecutive defeats against formidable opponents, including India, Australia, and South Africa, resulting in a significant blow to their Net Run Rate.
The team is now en route to Bengaluru for their crucial match against Pakistan at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. They will wrap up their group stage with a final match against Sri Lanka on November 9 at the same venue.
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