Somerset sign Matt Henry for County Championship and T20 Blast

Somerset County Cricket Club have roped in the likes of New Zealand pacer Matt Henry ahead of the forthcoming season of the County Championship. The pacer is expected to join them following the conclusion of the ODI series against Pakistan in May.

The Kiwi cricketer will be available until July 31 and could play at least seven four-day matches in the season, while he will be availabel for entirety of the T20 Blast. It is understood that Henry will be available for selection for the clash against Lancashire at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester, scheduled to be played on May 11. He will remain with the side until July 31. 

The Kiwi pacer expressed his delight after joining the ounty ahead of the forthcoming season. “I enjoy playing in English conditions and I’m looking forward to joining up with Somerset. They are a Club that are held in high regard, and I’ve heard only good things about the setup there. I’m excited by the challenge, and I hope that I can make big contributions for Somerset both on and off the field,” he was quoted by Somerset's website.

Matt Henry to return for second Test against England

The 31-year-old missed the first Test at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui as he had to attend the birth of his first child. Having given away a 1-0 lead to the visitors in the two-match series, the Blackcaps have made quite a few changes to their squad ahead of the second clash at Basin Reserve, Wellington.

While Ish Sodhi and Jacob Duffy have been released from the side, Kyle Jamieson will be on the sidelines to treat a stress fracture in his lower back. Henry is likely to replace Blair Tickner or Scott Kuggeleijn, both of whom made their debuts against the English side in the first Test. Henry has featured in 18 Tests since his debut and has 55 wickets to his name. Meanwhile, the second and final Test is scheduled to be played from February 23 as the hosts will look level the series.