Matt Henry Returns for West Indies ODI Series, Tickner Retains His Spot

New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry is set to return for the upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies, which begins on November 16 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

Henry had missed the final two ODIs against England due to a calf injury. He is currently completing his fitness and rehabilitation program to be fully ready for both the West Indies series and the following three-Test series.

Blair Tickner has also retained his place in the squad after his impressive performances against England, where he was named Player of the Match in both the second and third ODIs. Tickner’s bowling figures in those matches were 4–34 and 4–64, and he also guided New Zealand to victory with the bat in the third match. That win helped the Black Caps secure only their second-ever ODI series victory over England.

The pace attack will feature Henry, Tickner, Jack Foxcroft, Jacob Duffy, Kyle Jamieson, and Nathan Smith, while captain Mitchell Santner will lead the spin department alongside Michael Bracewell and Rachin Ravindra.

New Zealand Squad for the West Indies ODI Series:

Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Jack Foxcroft, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young.

Mohammad Abbas, Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Will O’Rourke, Glenn Phillips, and Ben Sears are unavailable due to injuries.

Kane Williamson has not been considered for the series as he focuses on preparing for the December Test series.

Black Caps head coach Rob Walter said,

“Matt Henry is a key member of our squad and a leader of the pace attack. It’s great to have him back in the team.”

Praising Tickner, he added,

“Blair was outstanding against England. His pace and bounce posed serious challenges for the opposition batters. He fully deserves his place in the squad after such performances.”

Walter also noted,

“The West Indies are always a dangerous side. They have players who can change the course of a match single-handedly. This will be another important series for us.”

The New Zealand team will begin their training camp in Christchurch on November 14. The three ODIs will be played on November 16 (Hagley Oval), November 19 (McLean Park, Napier), and November 22 (Seddon Park, Hamilton).

After their 3–0 series win over England, the Black Caps will aim for their 11th consecutive home series victory.