Champions Trophy 2025: 3 reasons why Matt Henry can be Player of the Match for New Zealand in final clash vs India

The veteran New Zealand pacer Matt Henry has been the most successful bowler for his side in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He has left everyone awestruck with his mind-blowing performances with the ball for New Zealand. He has played a vital role in New Zealand’s journey to the final of the tournament. 

Henry is the most experienced bowler in the current bowling attack of the Blackcaps owing the long period he played with the former legendary pacers, Trent Boult and Tim Southee. 

Given that, here we’ll look at the three reasons why Matt Henry can be Player of the Match for New Zealand in the summit clash against the Men in Blue. 

Current bowling form 

Matt Henry is enjoying a purple patch with the ball in the current edition of the prestigious cricket quadrennial. He has performed for NZ in almost every match they have played so far in the tournament. Henry has been one of the most consistent ‘performers with the ball’ for New Zealand. 

He also scalped a crucial five-wicket haul against India in the last league match to restrict them to the score of just 249 runs for the loss of 9 wickets in the allotted 50 overs. So, his current form could be a big reason to help him win the ‘Player of the Match’ award in the India vs New Zealand final. 

Pace-friendly conditions in the powerplay in Dubai 

If New Zealand gets to bowl first then it will increase the role of Matt Henry in making an impact with the new ball in the powerplay phase. He had also troubled the Indian skipper and star opener Rohit Sharma in the last league match. 

So, it will be a very important factor to see if Matt Henry gets a chance to bowl in the first 10 overs of the first innings in the final between India and New Zealand. He can pose a serious threat to India with his lethal bowling with the new ball in the powerplay overs. 

Numbers in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025 

Matt Henry is currently the leading wicket-taker of the tournament in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He has scalped 10 wickets in four innings, with a brilliant economy rate of 5.32, including a five-wicket haul (5 wickets at just 42 runs in a game). 

He has also a very impactful bowling strike rate of 18.80, alongside an impressive bowling average of 16.70. So, his consistency and the numbers in the ongoing marquee international tournament is also a big reason behind him winning the ‘Player of the Match award in the India vs New Zealand clash.  

Disclaimer: This Exclusive News is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.

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