Matt Henry's comeback to Somerset for the 2025 County Championship has been postponed

ANI April 6, 2025 168 views

Matt Henry's highly anticipated return to Somerset for the 2025 County Championship has been unexpectedly postponed due to a knee injury requiring extensive rehabilitation. The New Zealand fast bowler, who was an exceptional performer for Somerset in 2023, is currently working with medical staff to recover and prepare for the upcoming season. Somerset's management remains supportive and optimistic about Henry's eventual return, prioritizing his complete recovery over immediate play. With his impressive recent performances in international cricket, including being the top wicket-taker in the Champions Trophy, Henry remains a crucial player for New Zealand's bowling lineup.

"Matt's health, fitness and wellbeing are everyone's priority" - Andy Hurry, Somerset Director of Cricket
New Delhi April 6: New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry's comeback to Somerset for the 2025 County Championship has been postponed due to a knee injury.

Key Points

1

Knee injury halts Henry's planned Somerset return in April 2025

2

Top T20 Blast wicket-taker faces rehabilitation challenge

3

Somerset awaits star bowler's recovery and potential comeback

Henry was scheduled to arrive at Somerset on April 7 for an 11-week period, but his start has been pushed back as he goes through a "phased rehabilitation programme" with New Zealand's medical staff, as per a report by Wisden.

The fast bowler was withdrawn from the 2025 Champions Trophy final against India after incurring a shoulder injury in the semi-final against South Africa. A later knee problem also kept him out during the ODI series versus Pakistan.

Somerset's Director of Cricket, Andy Hurry, expressed disappointment over Matt's injury and its impact on the upcoming season. He emphasized the importance of Matt's health and assured fans that they are working towards his return in 2025.

"Obviously, this is frustrating news for Matt as well as our Somerset Members and supporters who we know were looking forward to seeing Matt in the club colours again in April, Matt's health, fitness and wellbeing are everyone's priority, and we will continue to connect and collaborate with all parties over the next few weeks. We are all working towards seeing Matt at the Cooper Associates County Ground in 2025, and as soon as we have any further updates, we will let our members and supporters know." Andy Hurry said, as quoted by Wisden.

Henry has previous County Championship experience in England, having played for Worcestershire, Derbyshire, and Kent. In 2023, he excelled for Somerset, concluding as the T20 Blast's top wicket-taker and securing 32 wickets in only six Championship matches. In total, he has 146 wickets in the County Championship.

With Tim Southee retired and Trent Boult no longer a consistent presence, Henry has emerged as New Zealand's primary fast bowler. He completed the recent Champions Trophy as the leading wicket-taker and has demonstrated equal dependability in Tests, spearheading New Zealand's bowling with 48 wickets at an average of 18. 58 in the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle - the highest by any New Zealand bowler.

Reader Comments

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James K.
Gutted to hear this news! Henry was phenomenal for us last season. Hope he recovers well - his health comes first though. That knee injury sounds serious if it's delaying his return by months 😟
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Sarah P.
As a NZ fan, I'm actually relieved they're taking proper precautions. He's become our bowling spearhead and we can't afford to lose him long-term. Get well soon, Matt! 🇳🇿
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Rajiv T.
Respectful criticism: While injuries happen, this is the second season in a row Somerset's overseas signing has been delayed. Maybe the club needs to review their medical assessment process before finalizing contracts?
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Emma L.
Those stats are insane - 48 wickets at 18.58 in Tests?! No wonder NZ are being cautious with him. Quality player who always gives 100%. Wishing him a speedy recovery! 💪
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Tom W.
As a Worcestershire fan, I remember his stint with us fondly. Class act both on and off the field. Hope to see him back in county cricket soon!
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Anika R.
The way Hurry handled this announcement shows real class. Putting player welfare first is how all clubs should operate. 👏 Now who steps up in Henry's absence though?

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Matt Henry Somerset County Cricket New Zealand Cricket County Championship Injury Update Fast Bowling
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