World Cup 2023: New Zealand receive huge boost, Tim Southee declared fit to fly to India after thumb surgery
As New Zealand gets ready for the ODI World Cup, they got a huge boost when they found out pacer Tim Southee would be flying to India after surgery on his hand.
With the approval of their senior fast bowler, Tim Southee, to play in India during the 2023 ICC Men's Cricket World Cup, the New Zealand cricket squad has seen a major boost. For the Blackcaps, who were waiting impatiently for updates on Southee's thumb injury recuperation, this is a tremendous relief.
On September 16, 2023, Southee suffered a fractured and dislocated right thumb while on tour in England with New Zealand. At Lord's during the fourth ODI against England, he was hurt while trying to make a catch. The team was really concerned about Southee's injury because of how close the World Cup was.
On September 20, 2023, Southee had surgery in New Zealand as a result of the injury. His right thumb would need to have screws or pins inserted during the treatment. When Southee would resume training and competition would depend on the outcome of the procedure as well as his post-operative pain and wound care.
According to Gary Stead, the head coach of New Zealand, they are crossing their "fingers crossed" for a successful outcome from Southee's surgery.
Southee's leadership role and wealth of experience meant that his possible withdrawal from the World Cup roster would have been a major blow to the team.
On September 26, 2023, Southee has received the all-clear medically, nevertheless, and will be returning to the squad later this week in India.
This is encouraging for his recuperation process and a significant win for the squad, which just won a series in Bangladesh 2-0.
The team will enter the tournament with fresh confidence, captained by Kane Williamson, who is also returning to action after a protracted injury layoff. Pace bowler Kyle Jamieson will also practise with the World Cup team this week in India as a precautionary measure.
However, he will not be formally included in the World Cup roster and will not be allowed to participate in any of the warm-up matches. In preparation for their opening World Cup match against England on October 5, the Kiwis will play warm-up matches against Pakistan and South Africa.