T20 World Cup 2026: Matt Henry to fly back home after NZ vs ENG match for birth of second child

New Zealand Cricket has approved the paternity leave of pace bowler Matt Henry, who will be flying back home after the New Zealand versus England clash of the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Henry, along with his wife, Molly, is expecting the birth of his second child in a few days’ time. 

If New Zealand defeat the Three Lions in the upcoming clash, they will be making it through to the semi-finals while also topping Group 2. New Zealand head coach Rob Walter has expressed hope that if the Black Caps make it to the top four, Henry is supposed to return and don the Kiwi jersey once again.

“Firstly, we’re all very excited for Matt and Holly on the arrival of their second child. It’s a very significant moment for their family, and we’re wishing them all the best. There’s a lot of water to go under the bridge, but we’re hopeful that the stars align for the team and for Matt and that we’ll see him back competing in the final phases of the competition,” Walter said in a statement, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. 

Meanwhile, New Zealand have named Henry in their playing XI in the match where they will be batting first against the Harry Brook-led side after winning the toss at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Henry will be looking to deliver a match-winning spell on the Friday evening before his wife delivers their second child. It is worth noting that the Mitchell Santner-led side has gone unchanged from their previous game.

NZ Playing XI versus ENG: Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra, Glenn Phillips, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (captain), Cole McConchie, Matt Henry, Ish Sodhi, Lockie Ferguson

More to follow!