In just five days, Matt Henry of New Zealand went from being a devoted father to his newborn kid back home to leading his team to the T20 World Cup final.
In the first semi-final in Kolkata on Wednesday, New Zealand defeated South Africa by nine wickets, with pace leader Henry returning with figures of 2/34. Finn Allen led his team into Sunday’s final in Ahmedabad, where they will play either India, by hitting the fastest-ever T20 World Cup century in 33 balls.
After returning to the team late on the eve of the match, Henry’s bowling effort was exceptional. He took the field less than a day later after returning to India for the birth of his second kid following New Zealand’s most recent Super Eights match against England on February 27.
“There was a lot of sleep happening on the way back to be honest. So yeah just focusing on my family to get home, that was important for me, and then it worked out that I could get back for the semi-final so it’s great to be here,” AFP quoted Henry telling reporters.
A boy has been born to Henry and his wife, Holly Carran.
“They’re doing great so yeah it was pretty special to be able to get home for that. Obviously Holly’s doing really well and Jack’s really good as well and Annabelle’s enjoying being a big sister so it’s all good,” said the 34-year-old Henry.
It is New Zealand’s second T20 World Cup final. In 2021, they lost to Australia in the final in the United Arab Emirates.
“It’s pretty special to be able to reach another final, the guys are really excited but for now just enjoy this (win). I think the guys have been playing some really good cricket. Finn was just unbelievable so we’ll enjoy that and then we can move on and get ready for what’s to come,” said Henry.
