New Zealand have called up fast bowler Matt Henry as a replacement for Neil Wagner ahead of the first Test against India that starts from February 21, 2020 at Wellington. Wagner, who is an important member of the bowling attack, is awaiting the birth of his first child, and, hence, will not be a part of the game.
Henry has played 1 2 Tests for New Zealand thus far, but was not picked in the initial 13-member side with the selectors opting for lanky newcomer Kyle Jamieson instead. Henry last played a game in Sydney against Australia last month, where he ended with just two wickets in two innings in his side’s defeat. He will now join the side on Wednesday. However, it is unlikely that he will get a chance to play against India, with Jamieson expected to be handed his debut cap.
Jamieson impressed in New Zealand’s recent ODI series win over India, where he picked up three scalps in two games. He also won the Player of the Match in his debut ODI, with his heroics with the bat lower down the order helping his team to a challenging total. The 25-year old had also picked up six wickets in three games against India A.
Wagner was initially expected to be a part of the training session on Thursday, but New Zealand Cricket confirmed that the left-arm pacer will miss the first game.