Double blow for New Zealand ahead of series decider
Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips have been ruled out of the Trent Bridge Test due to injury.
New Zealand have been dealt a double injury blow ahead of the third Test against England at Trent Bridge, with Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips both ruled out of the series finale.
Pace spearhead Henry will miss the match after scans confirmed a low-grade strain in his left calf. The fast bowler experienced discomfort during the second Test at The Oval, with subsequent medical assessments revealing the injury.
Initial indications suggest Henry will require between two and four weeks to recover.
The setback is a significant one for New Zealand, with Henry having played a key role in the bowling attack throughout the series.
Henry is the top wicket-taker in the series with 12 scalps.
Meanwhile, all-rounder Phillips has also been ruled out after sustaining a side strain during the second Test in London.
Phillips reported pain in his side while playing at The Oval, and further medical assessments are ongoing to determine the extent of the injury and establish a timeline for his return.
This is a major blow for the Kiwis as they aim to improve their ranking in the World Test Championship standings, with Phillips being their top-scorer in the series with 181 runs, which included a crucial century at The Oval.
Glenn Phillips of New Zealand celebrates his century during the second day of the England v New Zealand at The Oval (Photo by Harry Murphy/Getty Images)
The injuries leave New Zealand without two important members of their squad as they prepare for the third and final Test against England at Trent Bridge.
New Zealand's Tour of England Schedule:
First Test: Lord's, England won by 115 runs.
Second Test: The Oval, New Zealand won by 253 runs.
Third Test: Trent Bridge, June 25-29