New Zealand news: Matt Henry reflects on incredible return to Test cricket

Matt Henry made his return to the New Zealand Test team with an incredible career-best haul of 7 for 23 against South Africa on Thursday 17 February 2022.

New Zealand bowled South Africa out for just 95 on day one of their first Test at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

Henry described returning to Test cricket at his provincial home ground as a surreal experience.

A special day and a record performance! @Matthenry014 delivers the @ANZ_NZ Play of the Day at Hagley Oval. #NZvSA pic.twitter.com/DMO6Ne36Tz

— BLACKCAPS (@BLACKCAPS) February 17, 2022

He said that he has always tried to stay focused on his own game as he waits for opportunities in a New Zealand set-up blessed with an array of quicks.

Henry said that there was still work to do in the Test, but they were thrilled with their day one position as they reached 116 for 3 by stumps to hold a 21-run lead.

“Obviously today’s been a great day for us,” Henry said after play.

“It’s not always easy,” he said of the long gaps between Tests.

“You try not to focus too much on those external things you cannot control and make sure I’m still in that mindset of trying to get better every time you get that opportunity to play for New Zealand.”

Matt Henry on the mic #SparkSport #NZvSA pic.twitter.com/V3x9LOOw01

— Spark Sport (@sparknzsport) February 17, 2022

New Zealand skipper Tom Latham had backed his bowlers to do a number on the tourists on a green and slightly damp pitch in Christchurch.

Henry started the rout when he had Elgar caught at third slip with a ball that nipped away.

Putting a side in to bat in Test cricket can be a gamble but Latham’s boldness was rewarded as the Proteas capitulated.

The pitch dried out by the afternoon, visibly changing colour and New Zealand found