Sat Nov 08 23:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Henry Returns as Injury-Hit Black Caps Prepare for West Indies ODI Series

Christchurch, New Zealand – Veteran bowler Matt Henry is set to rejoin the New Zealand squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies, after recovering from a calf strain that sidelined him for the latter part of the recent England series. Henry, a key figure in the Black Caps’ pace attack, is undergoing a rehabilitation program to prepare him for both the ODI and subsequent Test series.

In a boost for the team, Blair Tickner retains his place in the squad after a stellar performance against England, earning back-to-back Player of the Match awards and claiming eight wickets at an impressive average of 12.25. Tickner’s resurgence has been a positive development for the Black Caps, as he hadn’t featured in ODIs since 2023 before his England heroics.

However, the New Zealand camp is grappling with a growing injury list. Mohammad Abbas (ribs), Finn Allen (foot), Lockie Ferguson (hamstring), Adam Milne (ankle), Will O’Rourke (back), Glenn Phillips (groin), and Ben Sears (hamstring) all remain unavailable for selection. Kane Williamson was also not considered as he prepares for the Test series beginning December 2nd.

“Matt is a vital member of this group and the senior leader of our pace attack, so it’ll be great to have him back around the group for the ODIs and Tests,” said Head Coach Rob Walter. “He will be fresh and fit after a good rest, and we know he’ll be raring to go ahead of a big five weeks with the white and red ball.”

Walter also praised Tickner’s performance against England, stating, “We couldn’t have asked for more from Ticks against England. He brought plenty of energy and his pace and bounce proved to be a big test for some of the best batters in the world.”

The New Zealand squad for the ODI series is: Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Zak Foulkes, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young.

The Black Caps will aim to extend their remarkable run of 10 consecutive ODI series wins, building on their recent 3-0 sweep of England. The series kicks off on November 16th in Christchurch, followed by matches in Napier on November 19th and Hamilton on November 22nd.

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