New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry has been granted paternity leave during the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and will return home to be with his wife for the birth of their second child. NZC and head coach Rob Walter have both expressed unwavering support for Henry's decision to be present for the arrival of his second child with his wife.
“Firstly, we’re all very excited for Matt and Holly on the arrival of their second child. It’s a very significant moment for their family and we’re wishing them all the best," Walter said in a statement.
Walter expressed optimism about a potential return for Matt Henry depending on New Zealand's progress in the latter stages of the World Cup.
“There’s a lot of water to go under the bridge, but we’re hopeful that the stars align for the team and for Matt and that we’ll see him back competing in the final phases of the competition," he said.
Meanwhile, New Zealand's campaign continues with semi-final qualification still on the line. They needed a victory over England to secure a guaranteed spot in the semis, but they lost the match. Now, they will rely on the outcome of Pakistan vs Sri Lanka match for their qualification into the semis.