IND vs NZ, Champions Trophy 2025 Final: Matt Henry Seen Dejected, Injured Pacer to Not Feature For New Zealand

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New Zealand may have been dealt a big blow as pacer Matt Henry, who was doubtful due to injury, cut a dejected look just moments before the Champions Trophy 2025 final against India in Dubai on Sunday (March 9). And was in fact ruled out of the final.

Henry picked up a shoulder injury when attempting a catch on the outfield during the semi-final against South Africa in Lahore on Wednesday (March 5). Missing his services in the title clash will come as a big blow for New Zealand. A week ago, Henry claimed a fifer in New Zealand's loss against India in the group stage.

Henry's absence from New Zealand's practice session had raised concerns, but skipper Mitchell Santner had clarified that the pacer was set to undergo a fitness test before a final decision on his availability was made.

"Yeah, so we'll be going across the road and training after this. And Matt's going to have a bowl just to see how he is. Yeah, and then I guess we'll make a call after that," Santner said in the pre-match press conference.

Head coach Gary Stead and skipper Mitchell Santner were hopeful of the pacer gaining fitness before the final, but from clips during the broadcast of the final, it seemed as though Henry may not feature in the title clash.

Henry, the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, was seen going through his fitness test before the toss and looked disappointed after bowling a few deliveries and received embrace from his compatriots, indicating that he may not play the final.

In Henry's absence, New Zealand, who are already without Lockie Ferguson, brough in all-rounder Nathan Smith to add more balance to their playing 11. Santner confirmed the news at the toss, "Unfortunately Matt Henry has been ruled out, we've got Nathan Smith coming in."