NZ missing Henry and Phillips to injury for third Test

New Zealand has suffered a major injury setback just before the start of the decisive third Test against England at Trent Bridge, losing two of their star performers from the previous match. Fast bowler Matt Henry and all-rounder Glenn Phillips have been ruled out with injuries sustained during the second Test at The Oval, forcing three changes to the visiting side.

Henry, who rose to the top of the ICC Test bowling rankings after a match-winning performance at The Oval, is sidelined with a calf injury. Scans revealed a low-grade muscle strain, with an initial assessment suggesting a recovery period of two to four weeks. Phillips, who scored his maiden Test century in that same match, is out with a side strain. New Zealand Cricket stated that further assessment is required to determine his return timeline.

The absence of both players, confirmed by captain Tom Latham at the toss on Thursday, is a significant blow for a team looking to secure a series victory in England. Their 253-run win at The Oval, which leveled the series at 1-1, was built on the back of Henry's 11-wicket match haul and Phillips' century.

With Kyle Jamieson also rested as a workload precaution after bowling 65...