Matt Henry's availability for Champions Trophy final in doubt

New Zealand’s bowler Matt Henry is in doubt for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 final against India due to a shoulder injury he sustained during the semi-final against South Africa. Henry, who is the tournament's highest wicket-taker so far, injured his shoulder while taking a catch to dismiss Heinrich Klaasen. 

Despite the injury, he returned to bowl two more overs later in the match and was seen diving in the field after his return.

Initially, New Zealand’s captain Mitchell Santner expressed hope that Henry would be fit for the final, but head coach Gary Stead has now confirmed that Henry’s fitness status remains uncertain with just over 48 hours remaining before the final.

"We’re giving him every chance to play in the final," Stead said. 

"The positive is that he got back out there to bowl after the injury. We’ve done some scans, but it’s still a bit unknown at this stage," he added. 

Henry has taken 10 wickets in the tournament at an impressive average of 16.70, with five of those wickets coming in New Zealand’s group match against India in Dubai, where the final will also take place.

Stead added that Henry is still "pretty sore" from landing on his shoulder, but they are hopeful he will recover in time. 

If Henry is unable to play, New Zealand have right-arm seamer Jacob Duffy in their squad. Duffy has not featured in any of New Zealand’s four matches in the tournament so far, but he did play in the pre-tournament tri-series against Pakistan, where he took 1 for 48 in seven overs.