New Zealand Confident Despite Matt Henry’s Race Against Time Ahead of T20 World Cup Semi-Final

New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry has returned home for the birth of his second child and is now in a race against time to rejoin the squad in India ahead of their T20 World Cup semi-final in Kolkata on March 4.

Head coach Rob Walter confirmed Henry’s departure, saying the team is prioritising family while remaining prepared for all scenarios.

“Matt’s home – safe and sound,” Walter said. “We’re dealing with nature, so we’re first and foremost just hoping that everything goes smoothly with the birth of his child and that he’s able to celebrate that with his family. If everything works out and the stars align, he should be back the day before the semi-finals. But we’ve got all contingencies covered if it doesn’t happen like that.”

Should Henry be unavailable, New Zealand are likely to recall Jacob Duffy, who missed out in spin-friendly conditions in Colombo. Seam-bowling allrounder Jimmy Neesham could also come into contention, potentially replacing offspin-bowling allrounder Cole McConchie. Walter also pointed to the depth in the squad, highlighting Kyle Jamieson as another capable option.

“Jacob’s been incredible for us over the last 18 months,” Walter said. “It’s tough leaving him out. If Matt can’t make it back, then absolutely he comes into contention. We’ve got very capable people sitting on the bench.”

New Zealand’s semi-final qualification was confirmed after a tense wait during the Pakistan-Sri Lanka clash. Opener Sahibzada Farhan struck a century to guide Pakistan to 212 for 8, leaving Sri Lanka needing 148 runs to ensure New Zealand’s progression on net run rate. Sri Lanka eventually reached 207 for 6, sealing New Zealand’s spot in the final four.

Walter admitted to nerves during the match. “I only watched the first half, then decided to read my book and check in later. When I saw 145 for 5, I knew there was a good chance they’d get the next three runs. It was a relief.”

The semi-final berth marks a strong comeback for New Zealand after their early exit in the 2024 T20 World Cup. Despite injuries and illness affecting the squad, they have managed to secure a top-four finish, with McConchie — drafted in as the 18th squad member — contributing to their recent victory over Sri Lanka at Khettarama.

“It’s a great privilege to be part of the top four teams in the world in the T20 format,” Walter said. “We’ve had days where our cricket wasn’t as good as we’d like, but we’ve also played some great cricket to give ourselves this opportunity.”

If India defeat West Indies, New Zealand will face South Africa in the semi-final at Eden Gardens. South Africa convincingly beat New Zealand during the group stage in Ahmedabad, but Walter believes conditions in Kolkata could shift the balance.

“They’ve played exceptionally good cricket so far,” he said. “Ahmedabad is a venue they’re familiar with, but the semi-final will be at a different ground with different challenges. That gives us an opportunity to adapt quickly, which is something we do well. It just takes one bad day for a team that’s been playing well. We need to be ready and play our best cricket.”

With contingency plans in place and confidence high, New Zealand now turn their focus to Kolkata, hopeful that Henry will rejoin the squad in time for their biggest test yet.