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ENG vs NZ: Double blow for New Zealand ahead of third Test; Matt Henry and Glenn Phillips ruled out due to injury
New Zealand has suffered two major setbacks just before the decisive third Test match against England at Trent Bridge (Nottingham). Star fast bowler Matt Henry and batsman Glenn Phillips—who has been in excellent form—have both been completely ruled out of the match due to injuries.
These two match-winners, who played pivotal roles in New Zealand's spectacular victory at the Oval Test, will not be part of the deciding match. While Henry is battling a calf injury, Phillips has sustained a side strain.
Injury to Henry, the ICC's No. 1 ranked bowler
According to a statement released by New Zealand Cricket (NZC), Matt Henry felt pain in his left calf during the Oval Test. A post-match scan confirmed a 'low-grade muscle strain.' Initial assessments suggest it could take 2 to 4 weeks for him to fully recover.
Notably, Henry had risen to become the world's No. 1 ranked bowler in the ICC Test rankings this week, thanks to his outstanding performances. He is the first New Zealand bowler to reach the top of the Test rankings in the last 36 years. Consequently, his absence is a massive blow for the Kiwi team.
Centurion Glenn Phillips also out of the team
Glenn Phillips, who played the role of a saviour by scoring a century in the first innings of the Oval Test, also complained of a side strain during the same match.
An exact assessment of how long their recovery will take is yet to be made.Series at stake: England strong, New Zealand on the back foot
The three-match Test series is currently level at 1-1. New Zealand had a golden opportunity to win a Test series on English soil, but the absence of these two key players has significantly compounded their difficulties.
Interestingly, in the previous match, the England team appeared vulnerable due to on-field controversies and the absence of captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson. However, the tables have completely turned for this third Test; England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson have returned to the squad, whereas New Zealand appears weakened by injuries.
