New Zealand included pace bowler Matt Henry for Covid-19 infected batsman Finn Allen in their squad for next month’s five-match Twenty20 internationals against Bangladesh.
Allen, who is now in quarantine in Dhaka, however, will remain with the team and would be monitored by the team doctor, Pat McHugh, said New Zealand Cricket on Friday.
Henry was initially selected for Pakistan tour but NZC said he would now depart New Zealand on Monday to link up with the Blackcaps in Dhaka.
“Matt’s clearly not a like-for-like replacement for Finn, but he expands our selection options and, in the current circumstances, is the best equipped to join the side at such short notice,” said New Zealand’s head coach Gary Stead
Henry, who was never in Bangladesh, said he was looking forward to his opportunity.
“I have played against Bangladesh over the last few years. But those were in our conditions, which are very different than what we are about to experience,” he said in a press meet held virtually.
“Bangladesh has been very strong in their recent series. They are known to be a very tough team to play at home,” he added.
New Zealand and Bangladesh will play five Twenty20 internationals at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium on September 1, 3, 5, 8 and 10.
