New Zealand got a big blow, this powerful bowler will return home amid T20 World Cup; Know what is the reason

Trouble for NZ in T20 WC 2026: In the exciting phase of T20 World Cup 2026, the New Zealand team seems to be in great form and is standing on the threshold of reaching the semi-finals. But just before the knockout, the team has suffered a major setback, which has affected their bowling combination.

Before the important match against England, it has been reported that the team’s leading fast bowler Matt Henry will return home in the middle of the tournament. However, this decision is not due to any injury or controversy, but is related to a very special moment in his life.

T20 WC 2026: Matt Henry will return home due to becoming a father

New Zealand’s deadly fast bowler Matt Henry has become a father for the second time, due to which he will leave the team and return home after the match against England. New Zealand coach Rob Walter confirmed the news and said that this is a very special moment for Henry and his family and the entire team is happy. He expressed hope that Henry could rejoin the team before the final stages of the tournament.

T20 WC 2026: Henry’s performance in the tournament has been excellent

Matt Henry has been among the most effective bowlers of New Zealand in this T20 World Cup. He has taken 6 wickets in five innings at an excellent economy of 7.38, due to which there was constant pressure on the opposition teams. His accurate line-length and ability to take wickets in the powerplay has been a big strength for New Zealand, so his temporary absence from the team could upset the balance.

T20 WC 2026: Expected to return by semi-finals

If the New Zealand team reaches the semi-finals, then Matt Henry can rejoin the team for the match on 4 or 5 March. The team management hopes that his return in the knockout stage will reinvigorate the bowling attack and the team will emerge as a stronger contender in the title race.

T20 WC 2026: New Zealand in strong position in race for semi-finals

New Zealand’s match against Pakistan was canceled due to rain, but after this the team defeated Sri Lanka and was eliminated from the tournament. Now victory against England will not only take them to the semi-finals but can also give them the top position in the group. In such a situation, they may face another team from Group 1 in the semi-finals, and there are chances that a high-voltage clash may be seen between India and New Zealand.