Although it is midsummer in New Zealand, the morning temperature was around 15°C. And as almost always happens at Basin Reserve, there came an end when the bowlers had to work against a strong wind. Henry said, New Zealand understood how to use these circumstances.
“It’s probably about the end of understanding,” he said. “The wind plays a big role here in the basin. It’s home advantage – knowing what it feels like to attack from both ends, and making use of the bounce that’s usually available here. Thankfully we were able to force some errors and Were able to take some wickets.”
The first ten overs, at the end of which New Zealand had reduced Sri Lanka to 23 for 4, were the decisive period of the match. Henry took the first wicket – that of Pathum Nissanka – and Jacob Duffy and Nathan Smith also took wickets in their first spells.
“The way we started with the ball, we were able to put pressure on both ends and take wickets throughout, which is our main objective as a bowling group,” Henry said. “Whenever you get the new ball you want to have an impact on the game. It’s good to have that success, but you don’t have it without the people doing the work at the other end. Start with the new ball down-breeze, which The way Duffy started and Smith too – the way we got chances, I thought it was a great team performance.
New Zealand also produced an excellent fielding effort, particularly with Mark Chapman in the point area. However, the highlight of the fielding display was Mitchell Santner pouncing on the ball from cover to fire an underhand throw, when he dived forward and hit the single stump at which he was aiming. Due to this, Kamindu Mendis was run out in the 10th over.
“We’re proud of our fielding,” Henry said. “In these windy conditions, you can get lost out there. The contest was fantastic, and we were taking our chances when they came. The first 10 overs were run out by Mitch Santner with brilliant fielding, it really put a team under pressure. Little moments like that have a huge impact on the game.”
Henry himself has entered a new phase in his career – one in which he features in all three New Zealand teams. In the last 10 years, he has lived in the shadow of stalwarts like Tim Southee, Trent Boult and Neil Wagner. With all three now retired, Henry is the most senior bowler.
“It’s great to keep that continuity. Playing for New Zealand in all formats is something I wanted to do. I’ve been associated with this group for 10 years. I love playing for New Zealand.”
And although playing all three formats can pose new challenges to a fast bowler’s body, Henry is not worried about that.
“That’s the beauty of strength and conditioning coaches, who do a great job. We play all year round now, and it’s something I’ve always done. I’ve also played a lot of county cricket. It’s probably about understanding What is your body and how to stay fresh.
Andrew Fidel Fernando is a senior writer for ESPNcricinfo. @afidelf
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